6b Change Management

Question 0

(c) Describe three factors that must be considered when managing the change to the new stock control system.(6 marks)

Answer 0

One for identification to a max 3, second for description eg:
 staff capability (1) extra staff may need to be employed (1)
 staff views (1) will need to be taken into account (1)
 changes in working practice (1) might require training and an
increase in wages (1)
 systems need testing (1) and training on software provided (1)
staff need to embrace new systems (1)
 equipment needs to be installed (1) and training on hardware
given/possible implications for health and safety (1)
 accommodation for the new workforce and for the machines
(1) must be planned to avoid disruption to the business (1)  financial aspects (1) business may have to close during

Question 1

Give four factors affecting decisions which must be made when upgrading software (4 marks)

Answer 1

Any four from:
 have to take into account the expertise of the
current staff (1)
 the cost of retraining the staff (1)
 costs of buying and installing the new system (1)
 the benefits that the new system would bring (1)
 the disruption that would be caused by retraining
and changeover (1)
 the nature of the current system (1)
 the method of implementation (1)
 the time-scale of the changeover (1)
 testing once changeover had occurred (1)
 software compatibility with the existing
data/hardware (1)
 consultation with the staff (1) [4]

Question 2

Explain why it is important to manage change in an organisation (11 marks)

Answer 2

Points may include:
 decreasing resistance to change
 getting the users on side so it does not come as a surprise to them
 allows smooth transition from old to new system
 allows all relevant parties to be informed, staff, suppliers, customers so
if something goes wrong they will be more understanding
 lots of tasks to complete, by managing it makes sure they are all
completed and not forgotten and not done.