The Science of Change: The Importance of Methodology in Leading Change in the Army

Abstract

This study investigates the science of change management and seeks to discover how well the Army handles the process of leading and managing change. Using John Kotter's eight step process for change management (CM) as a benchmark model, this monograph presents three case studies for analysis and comparison. Each case study is qualitatively measured against the `ideal' presented in Kotter's CM model. While the case studies presented are not an exhaustive representation of the Army's efforts to effect change, the observations and analysis provided indicate that the Army enjoys mixed results at leading change. The evidence also suggests that applying the science and methodology of CM is a critical enabler and catalyst for positive results. Additionally, the monograph points to a systemic lack of Professional Military Education (PME) on the topic of CM and recommends the introduction of a tiered system of educating our leaders beginning at the Sergeants Major Academy, the Basic Officer Leader Course (BOLC), and continuing at each venue through the Brigadier General's Training Course (BGTC).

Open PDF

Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
May 24, 2007
Accession Number
ADA479415

Entities

People

  • Martine S. Kidd

Organizations

  • United States Army Command and General Staff College

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Human Systems

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Acquisition
  • Base Closures
  • Business Administration
  • Case Studies
  • Commerce
  • Education
  • Logistics
  • Management Personnel
  • Military Education
  • Military Science
  • Organizational Structure
  • Students
  • Supply Chain
  • Supply Chain Management
  • Training
  • United States
  • War Colleges

Readers

  • Military Leadership and Professional Education.
  • Organizational Process Management (OPM).
  • Systems Analysis and Design