Question

Identify and explain the various barriers to change, and how the steps used by managers in the change process can overcome these barriers.

Answer 1

The change within an organization is important for the betterment and bring in new technologies and systems.
Some of the main barriers to change are as follows :

1. resistance to change : everyone is not very comfortable with the changes and many employees shows a resistance behaviour to change. Uncertainities, fear of risk and new environment, loss of control are some of the reasons which causss resistance behaviour.
2. Unfamiliar technology : Organizational change may introduce new technologies and systems. This results in difficulty handling the new technology by the employees.
3. Altered work environment: organizational change results in working with new people, technology and in a new place. This change in work environment may create discomfort among the employees.
4. Lack of directions : The directions given to implement a change should be clear, accurate, focused and to the point. Lack of directions will result in chaos and confusion among the employees.

5. Lack of strategic planning : organizational change requires a strategic planning and precise implementation which are aimed to achieve a focused goal. Without proper planning and implementation employees will feel aimless and confused.
Steps to overcome barriers :

1. Give some time and space to team members to adapt and adjust to the changes.

2. Effective Communication : Talk to team members, introduce them to the new changes and need for the changes. Educate them about the benefits of new changes.
3. Assure and provide confidence to team members eliminating the uncertainities and risk factors.
4. Provide trainings and workshops to familiarise team members to the new technology.
5. The manager should always provide support and encouragement to the team members. This will help them to accept the new work environment in a better way.