Skip the NI Direct Bar
Skip navigation

Topics

PPM Policy

Methods

Resources

Change

Description

Change can best be described in two ways:

  • Transformational – concentrates on transforming the way that the business functions, putting in place new structures, systems, procedures and product or service offerings; and
  • Incremental or tactical – where improvements are made to what already exists.

For many organisations, change is about responding to fluctuations in the dynamic environment within which they operate. Change Management refers to this reactive and/or anticipative/proactive response to change. An organisation needs to understand the need for change and the nature of the change required. Organisations need to develop the ability to respond to the forces that drive change (change drivers), in a planned and managed fashion.

Programmes (Office of Government Commerce (OGC) - Managing Successful Programmes (MSP)) are closely tied to the strategic direction of the organisation i.e. the policies, strategies and initiatives that are being influenced and shaped by the change drivers.  Programmes and Projects are the main vehicles of organisational change and should be identified, defined and prioritised to implement and deliver the changes (and benefits) required.  Programmes are designed to deliver benefits by implementing changes in culture, structure & infrastructure, processes and both internal & external services. Programmes do this by initiating, aligning and monitoring projects and other related activities. These are needed to create new products or service capabilities and effect changes in business operations as illustrated in the model below:-

  • Global drivers, including rising customer demands/expectations, technological changes, globalisation and social/demographic changes
  • Public-sector/Civil-Service-wide drivers, such as those related to Modernising Government, Civil Service Reform or sustainable procurement
  • Local drivers, such as the changing needs and requirements of external and internal stakeholders, including ministers, customers, partners, suppliers and staff.

For more information please follow the links provided.