Change Agent -- Internal or External --

¶ … change agent -- internal or external -- has to evaluate the organization as a whole. The problems and difficulties experienced by any company may be unique to the company or to the type of business. Change implementation generally requires a change in the behavioral strategies -- either of the organization, the process used or the individual.

Attempts at changing the motivation of the organization have to be tackled by changing the motivation of the employees at all levels of the organization. Abraham H. Maslow and Douglas M. McGregor both believed that in order for people to work to their full potential, they're basic needs have to be satisfied. There are various factors that affect motivation: achievement in a specific field, recognition of the value of the work, pride in the work, responsibility, advancement and growth in the workplace act as a stimulant and motivator.

In recent times, the manager has felt the need to upgrade their skills and obtain more information about processes and procedures beyond the scope of their expertise. The managers' roles have changed in keeping with the changes of the organization as a whole. Managers are using teams and focus groups to help identify factors that have adverse effects on the productivity of the company.

In situations where more than one type of product is manufactured in the same location, multiple teams are set up. In order to have all the processes flowing smoothly through the plant, interactions between various groups is required. Communication between groups and in between team members has to be efficient and effective for policies and procedures to be implemented.

Democratic and less authoritarian powers hinder the change process. A good change agent helps identify the factors that affect the process. There are no blueprint methods that can be used across the board to all organizations to implement change. The risk and operational hazards involved with any operation requires in-depth analysis. Only after all the factors have been evaluated on their individual merits and later for the effect on the overall operations of the organization.

The change agent or the team members helping in the change should not impose a solution that is familiar and tested by them on any organization. However the individual characteristic should be used to help customize a plan to an organization. All the people involved in the change should be willing to wholeheartedly get involved, and not just provide lip service to the cause. Many changes in the organization have changed because the management withdrew from the change process halfway into the process.

A good leader knows how to generate enthusiasm and positive thinking within and how to broadcast it. Mr. Hill stated, "The most powerful instrument we have in our hand is the power of our mind." Hill states that man can create nothing if he does not have first conceive it as a thought. Thoughts can be incredibly powerful! All organizations need good leaders and managers to spearhead the changes in the organization.

Common courtesies like being polite, and good manners can help a leader and manager set an example. This is very important for businesses that want to have a good relationship with their clientele.