We are taught as children to always have a plan for escaping from a fire hazard. We practice what to do in an emergency situation, at home or at school, so that we are prepared for it.
A change management plan is a plan that helps project managers to manage unexpected changes.
Not every change needs to be triggered by a disaster like a fire or drastic budget cuts. Change management can also include more routine changes such as the hiring of new staff, new facilities, and the implementation of new software and tools.
As we learned from fire drills, the most important thing is to have a plan in place. You don’t want to rush to get your team onboard the day before you make the transition to your new project management system.

Change management is not a different concept from project management. Project management is about adapting to changes as a project progresses.
It can be viewed as project management involving tasks, while change management involves people. Change management, in other words, is about coaching people through change so they can continue to do their jobs.
Let’s look at some guidelines for creating a change management program.
How to create your change management plan
Some changes are unpredictable by nature. Imagine that one of your most beloved principals suddenly leaves to start a new company, in Dubai, the land of drone taxis. You now have to coach your organization by accepting a new leadership structure.
A solid change management plan will help you deal with unexpected changes as well as easier-to-prepare for change. Moving your growing business into a new building with a coffee shop and yoga studio. Although you may have many years to plan for a change like that, there are still many things to consider.
Each change management plan includes three main phases: direction, reinforcement, and planning. Let’s take a closer look at each phase.
1. Planning

Plan to keep planning
Although it may seem redundant, planning is the first phase of any solid management plan. This phase can last for several months or just a few hours depending on the circumstances. The more you can get out in front, the smoother it will be.
This phase includes steps like:
2. Direction

Change management gone awry
This is the heart of change management because it is the time when the actual change is taking place. This could be the time when your employees start using new collaboration software in a live project, or the first few weeks of your new CEO. This phase should go smoothly if you plan well.
This phase includes steps like:
3. Reinforcement

Celebrate success in change
You had a good plan for the change. Your new software didn’t explode or burn down the building. All of your employees were able to keep their jobs on track without missing a deadline. That’s great! But that’s not the end. Although your team may be excited to use the new software and work in the new facility, you must ensure that you monitor the progress of the change.
This phase includes steps like:
Are you ready for a change?
This guide will help you feel more prepared to face any changes at work. If I have missed something, please let me know by leaving a comment!
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