Change Management: Human & Machine

Change management can often feel like trying to navigate an endlessly shifting maze. Just when you think you’ve got it all figured out, a new twist or turn appears—whether it’s a new tool, a process overhaul, or an unexpected market shift. The complexity of managing change, especially when it seems like there’s no end in sight, can be overwhelming. According to IDC, by 2028, 80% of CIOs will leverage ambitious 'organizational changes to harness AI, automation, and analytics, driving agile, insight-driven digital businesses'. But what if, instead of getting lost in the complexity, we focused on the practical, everyday actions that make change not only manageable but meaningful?

At the heart of these practical applications are the people who live and breathe these changes daily. Effective change management isn’t about grand strategies or sweeping reforms—it’s about the small, intentional steps that support your team through each twist and turn. It’s about recognizing that behind every new process or tool is a person who needs to feel confident, valued, and prepared for what’s next. When we shift our focus to these everyday actions, we create a workplace where continuous improvement is not a daunting task but a shared, achievable goal.

Why should this matter to you? Because when change is managed well at the human level, it leads to a more engaged and resilient workforce. People who feel supported during times of change are more likely to embrace new ways of working, contribute innovative ideas, and stay motivated. In other words, effective change management is about creating an environment where people don’t just survive change—they thrive in it.

Now, let’s talk about AI—not as the solution to all our problems, but as a practical tool that can help us navigate the maze more effectively. AI can assist in optimizing workflows, the very foundation of how work gets done every day. When workflows are streamlined and efficient, they become the bedrock upon which larger change initiatives can be built. AI’s role here is to act as a catalyst, automating routine tasks and identifying inefficiencies so that your team can focus on higher-impact activities.

Workflows are where theory meets practice. They’re the day-to-day mechanisms through which change is implemented. By honing in on workflows, organizations can achieve tangible, measurable change that directly supports their broader strategic goals. For instance, a well-designed workflow can reduce the time spent on repetitive tasks, freeing up resources that can be redirected toward more strategic initiatives. This isn’t just about making things run smoother; it’s about creating a solid foundation that makes aspirational change possible.

But the real power of effective workflows lies in their ability to unlock iterative improvement. When workflows are designed with flexibility and efficiency in mind, they become a platform for ongoing refinement and innovation. Small, incremental changes within a workflow can lead to significant gains over time, creating a ripple effect that impacts the entire organization. This approach allows businesses to pursue big-picture goals without losing sight of the practical steps needed to get there.

At the heart of it, isn't change management really all about helping humans do what they do better? And ultimately, workflows are at the core of practical change management. They bridge the gap between everyday operations and strategic aspirations, enabling organizations to achieve measurable, sustainable change. When these workflows are enhanced with AI, it amplifies the impact even further, allowing teams to focus on what truly matters—driving business outcomes and nurturing a work environment where people can thrive. In this way, practical change management becomes not just a response to the complexities of today’s business world, but a proactive strategy for leading the way forward.