The purpose of this essay is to demonstrate an understanding of how to manage a change process in a complex organisational environment and demonstrate how relevant theoretical and conceptual literature around managing change can be applied to the management of change in a real context.
Instructions
1. You should select an organisation (or industry) which is experiencing problems or challenges.
2. You should analyse the current situation and where possible using change management terminology.
3. You should then identify and critically apply a suitable theoretical approach (or approaches) that could be used to address the challenge or difficulties.
4. You should then outline steps to implement a change management process that builds on the theory to respond to the challenge or problem identified.
5. You should also consider any possible difficulties that may emerge in the process of implementation and how these can be addressed.
The essay should contain a description of the change process that is to be undertaken (so the change should not have already happened) the types of issues that the implementation may raise for managers and staff, and how these can be addressed.
Selection of organisation
Students may select any organisation for the case, but the scenarios outlined should not be a copy of the group work covered in the seminars (although it may take some inspiration from the seminar cases). The organisation or the scenario may be fictional, or loosely based on a real case or combination of cases. However students should not use cases where change management has already taken place.
Structure
The essay should start with an introduction that sets the scene and provides contextual information about the organisation and its need for change (such as the type of organisation, its role, where it is based and the problem it faces). The main part of the essay should focus on the change process itself, its implementation challenges and expected outcomes. The essay should outline the proposed change process and discuss how it can be managed. Advantages and disadvantages of the change process should also be outlined. It is essential that the essay draws on relevant theory, tools and concepts from the literature around Managing Change. You should also include conclusions and a section in which you list the references to sources used.
Wider reading & References
Wider reading around the theoretical literature is essential as is a reading around the organisation. The essay should use consistent and comprehensive referencing based around a particular style.
Word count
The essay is expected to be 2000 words +/- 10%. This does not include references.
Charts and diagrams
The essay may include charts and diagrams. References to sources used must be included and these do not count towards the word limit.
