Change Proposal

XYC Change Management Plan

Enterprise Framework

XYC Foods is a growing one-stop gourmet food store chain. There is a need to adapt to the growth by implementing a new software system. This system will increase efficiency of the Human Resource informational system through full automation. Initially, this will involve adaptations and changes in workflow for both human resource employees as well as store employees. A path-goal leadership strategy must be established to ensure employees understand the benefit of the new system and are motivated to change. Benefits include more accurate reporting, less manual inputting of data, and greater overall efficiency. Initially, additional work will ensue but ultimately work will be made more systematic and involve less processing, thus allowing for growth.

Some areas of the company will not be impacted. These include functions within the Human Resource Department involving hiring, management of third party vendors (this includes workers compensation processing) and job analysis, salary surveys and compensation decisions. In addition, purchasing and merchandising actions will not change. Stocking of stores, inventory, and training in product knowledge also will not be impacted.

The following suggestions address the challenges involved in the change management process:

1. Each function that will change must be identified, by action and by personnel affected. This information must be further drilled down to include personnel impacted directly by changes in work processes, as well as personnel impacted indirectly through better processing of data.

2. A clear strategy for the change must be present that is aligned with the organizational strategy. It is key to note, "the primary task for management today is the leadership of organizational change" (By, 2005).

3. A timetable for the implementation of the changes must be established, with the input from management that is conducive to achieving results within a set period of...