Page 377 - Business Principles and Management

Unit 4

Change occurs regularly in
business today. What are
some examples of recent
changes that have occurred
PHOTO: PR NEWSWIRE HONDA PRECISION PARTS OF GEORGIA.
in businesses in your
community?

People who study the change process recognize that it is almost impossible to
conceal information about pending changes. Based on informal communication
and limited information, rumors and misinformation will spread. If people are
surprised by a change or feel they have been misled, the result is usually more
damaging to the organization than the result of early, direct communications
from management.
Managers who have previously established open communications with
employees are in the best position to communicate with them about possible
changes. Because change occurs frequently in business, employees who are
used to regular communications with their man-
agers will not be surprised by information about
potential changes, even if the changes may appear
to be negative. Open, two-way communications
between managers and employees are part of an
effective change process.
One of the most highly respected awards in
business is the Malcolm Baldrige Quality Award.
Established by the federal government in 1987, INVOLVING
it recognizes the achievements of companies It is frequently said that people support what
that improve the quality of their goods and they create. Managers must recognize that em-
services and provide an example of high ployees can be a good source of ideas for effective
quality and productivity. Point your browser to solutions and how to make changes. Most effec-
www.thomsonedu.com/school/bpmxtra. Review tive change processes involve the people who will
the self-assessment questionnaire businesses can be affected in gathering information, considering
give to employees to determine the employees’ alternatives, and testing solutions. It is usually
views of the business’s quality efforts. Why do not possible to involve everyone in all parts of
you believe the government is interested in the change process or to use a majority vote to
recognizing companies that demonstrate their decide on a change. However, employees will be
commitment to quality?
more supportive when they know their voices will
be heard and that they have input into plans that
www.thomsonedu.com/school/bpmxtra
result in change.

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