Organisational Change and Innovation

Assignment Brief

Module Title:    Creative Change and Innovation

Learning Outcomes Tested in this Assignment :

1. Critically evaluate the components of organizational change which encompass context, communication and responses
2. Select and apply theoretical approaches to planning organizational change

Assessment Criteria
1	Choose a company or organisation you are familiar with that could benefit from organisational change procedures to improve its overall productivity  and effectiveness
2	Evaluate those components in the change areas which encompass context, communication and responses.
3	Select and apply in a critical and theoretical approach your plans for and in the organisational structure.
4	Harvard referencing principles are applied throughout the submission in the correct manner.  Authentic and academic sources have been utilised to support each section of the work. Omitting to reference correctly reduces work to a descriptive level only.

Sample Answer

Organisational Change and Innovation: A Critical Evaluation

Introduction

Organisational change is a critical process through which companies adapt to evolving market conditions, improve productivity, and enhance effectiveness. Effective change management encompasses understanding the organisational context, establishing clear communication strategies, and anticipating employee responses. This essay critically evaluates these components using Marks & Spencer (M&S) as a case study, illustrating how planned organisational change can address productivity challenges and foster innovation.

Context of Organisational Change

M&S, a leading UK retailer, has faced significant challenges in recent years, including declining sales, increased competition from online retailers, and shifting consumer behaviour. The organisational context for change includes internal factors such as outdated management structures and siloed operations, and external factors including technological disruption and changing customer expectations. Kotter’s (1996) model of change suggests that understanding this context is essential for developing a strategic vision and creating urgency, which are foundational steps for successful transformation.

Communication Strategies in Change

Communication plays a pivotal role in facilitating organisational change. Effective communication ensures that all employees understand the rationale for change, the anticipated benefits, and their role in the process. At M&S, internal communication channels such as team meetings, digital newsletters, and collaborative platforms could be leveraged to foster transparency and engagement. Research by Armenakis and Bedeian (1999) highlights that clear, consistent, and open communication reduces resistance, builds trust, and encourages employee participation in change initiatives.

Responses to Organisational Change

Employee responses to change can range from enthusiastic adoption to active resistance. Lewin’s (1947) Change Management Model, unfreeze, change, refreeze, provides a useful theoretical framework for anticipating and managing reactions. In the case of M&S, training programmes, workshops, and participatory decision-making processes could support employees in acquiring new skills, adjusting to revised processes, and integrating change into their daily routines. Continuous feedback mechanisms, such as surveys and focus groups, allow management to monitor reactions and adjust strategies accordingly.

Theoretical Approach to Organisational Structure

Applying a theoretical perspective to organisational structure, M&S could benefit from a matrix structure, which promotes cross-functional collaboration and flexibility. According to Galbraith (2014), matrix organisations facilitate innovation by enabling teams to access diverse expertise while maintaining accountability. Coupled with agile project management practices, this approach can improve responsiveness, streamline decision-making, and enhance overall productivity. By aligning structure with strategic objectives, M&S can create an environment that supports continuous improvement and innovation.

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