Framework 186    Micro Change Management (MCM) (evolutionary approach)

Introduction
Traditionally change has been associated with large, time-consuming, drawn-out initiatives, ie waterfall approach.
The Covid pandemic (starting in 2020) resulted in a rethink.
"...lasting, long-term change is most effective when it occurs over a series of small micro changes......is the best approach to drive large and lasting change in an organisations. These small changes, when made continuously over a period of time, have a compound effect that drives larger change and transformation..."
Jeff Kavanaugh et al, 2021
MCM is based on human motivation and behavioural theory rather than templates; it involves daily short stand-up meetings to ensure that the change initiatives stay in sync with rapidly-evolving needs; uses smaller benchmarks to measure progress.
"...The sum of many micro changes brings about the larger change, creating a cumulative effect that delivers nonlinear improvements with a greater likelihood of overall success..."
Jeff Kavanaugh et al, 2021
Strategies
Use 3 strategies  to implement MCM:
i) deconstruct the change into small steps (divide the change initiative into smaller increments that have well-defined objectives and outcomes; use small teams with diverse cross-functional skills)
ii) change behaviour through small modifications to habits and routines (MCM
"...uses a synchronised combination of cues, nudges, and suggestions, along with targeted reward and recognition......each micro-change would drive a small modification in a habit or routine......a small positive step that eventually leads to ultimate behaviour shift with minimal resistance and risk along the way..."
Jeff Kavanaugh et al, 2021
Use positive reinforcement to change people's behaviour.
iii) continuously measure, learn and evolve (continually monitoring and evaluating the progress, including feedback; be willing to make modifications when required
"...adoption becomes significant when it reaches 20 to 40%, and then standard at 60%. At 80%, it is considered assimilated into the organisation and culture..."
Jeff Kavanaugh et al, 2021
Summary
This is more about evolutionary change (small changes over time) rather than revolutionary change (a large change conducted quickly.)
Focus on small, incremental components rather than tackling change all at once; this helps address complexity and uncertainty, making it easier to implement lasting change.
This requires a mindset of flexibility and adaptability.
"...Micro change management  provides a low risk, agile approach to deconstruct complex transformations into manageable change, minimising the leap of faith required to reach the other side. Over time, this leads to real adoption: the ultimate goal...... in any transformation initiative..."
Jeff Kavanaugh et al, 2021