Many of those in government have leveraged on the change mantra to navigate their paths to leadership. In most cases, the desire to crystallize change is genuine. However to achieve positive results, they have to fix archaic legacy structures and processes, and eliminate counterproductive rules and regulations. Other bureaucrats may wish to shoot for more ambitious goals that require a change of culture. The expanded use of collaboration tools like social media is one example of a big and important culture change.
Unfortunately effecting change in large organizations is extremely difficult. Those difficulties can be significantly amplified in the public sector. Entrenched rules and structures pose many obstacles. Resource limitations often seem to be the rule rather than the exception. Moreover the possibility of criticism from multiple source like the Legislature and the media tends to make many officials adopt a risk averse orientation.
So how does the leader and other change agents manage all these obstacles to bring about significant positive change? The follow up on this article will outline 12 strategies and practices that can be very helpful in the change management process in government. Hang tight as we navigate these initiatives. Enjoy!