Question:
Explain the difference between planned change and emergent change within organizations. Provide an example of each. Why or why not?
Response:
Planned Change and Emergent Change are two distinct approaches to managing change within organizations.
Planned change refers to changes that organizations intentionally and systematically design, implement, and manage. These changes are typically well-structured and follow a predetermined course of action. Organizations identify a specific need or goal, develop a detailed plan, and execute it according to the plan. Planned change is often associated with strategic initiatives, such as introducing modern technologies, restructuring departments, or launching new products or services.
Example of Planned Change: An organization decides to implement a new software system across all its departments to improve efficiency and streamline operations. They conduct thorough research, create a detailed implementation plan, provide training to employees, and roll out the software systematically, following the predetermined timeline.
Emergent change, on the other hand, is a more spontaneous and unplanned form of change that evolves gradually over time. It arises in response to unexpected events, challenges, or opportunities that were not initially anticipated. Emergent change is often a result of employees' or teams' grassroots initiatives, rather than top-down management decisions. It tends to be less structured and may lack a predetermined plan.
Example of Emergent Change: Within a company, a group of employees in a particular department starts using a new communication app to collaborate more effectively. Over time, other departments notice the benefits and begin adopting the app as well. Eventually, the organization as a whole embraces this change as the new standard for communication, even though it was not part of any formal plan.
Ease of Implementation: Whether one approach is easier to implement than the other depends on the specific circumstances and the nature of the change. Neither planned change nor emergent change is inherently easier; they each have their advantages and challenges.
Planned Change: This approach offers the advantage of clear structure and control. Organizations can carefully plan and manage resources, timelines, and communication. However, it can be challenging to anticipate all variables and potential resistance from employees, which may lead to delays or unexpected obstacles.
Emergent Change: Emergent change can be more flexible and adaptive because it responds to emerging needs or opportunities. It often benefits from employee engagement and grassroots support. However, it may lack formal planning and oversight, which could lead to inconsistencies or difficulties in scaling the change across the entire organization.
Analyze the response, does it answer the question? Give examples.