2.7 THREE-STEP CHANGE MODEL (LEWIN)

Question 1

WHAT IS THE THREE-STEP CHANGE MODEL?

Answer 1

Driving forces and restraining forces
In order to lead change away from the status quo toward a desired state, the restraining forces should be reduced and the driving forces should be increased.
Lewin recommends the change process works through three key steps which are: unfreezing, changing, refreezing.

Question 2

WHAT IS UNFREEZING?

Answer 2

Unfreezing is where management prepare the people and the business for change.
- Driving and restraining forces
- Create energy around the change will help reduce resistance
- Often the most difficult - managers are trying to challenge the norm
- Employees must appreciate where the business is heading and why
- Must first challenge the status quo before making changes

Question 3

WHAT IS CHANGE?

Answer 3

This is where change takes place and is implemented.
- Clear goals, continued commitment, and sustained energy directed towards the change
- Takes time!
- Communication and support are important
- Empower employees to act and embrace change
- But change can be hard, and can negatively impact employees

Question 4

WHAT IS REFREEZING?

Answer 4

Refreezing is the final stage of the pLanned change process and is designed to maintain momentum for the change and ensure it is implemented for the long term.
- Change is reinforced and evaluated
- The aim of this phase is to institutionalise the changes so that they become part of the culture within the business
- Change becomes a way of the life - new employees will be trained in the new way of doing things
- Important step in successful change