One of the most common questions we get from potential clients looking for a change management methodology is "How does AIM (the Accelerating Implementation Methodology) compare to other change management approaches?”  On the surface, a lot of change management methodologies look similar.  For example, most change management approaches are research-based and include tools, templates and checklists.  But based on decades of work on global change management projects, and training thousands of people in our change management training programs, clients have told us that AIM stands out from the rest.  Here’s why: 

Whether you call it a perspective, a paradigm, or just “the way I see it”, Frames of Reference (FOR) are not optional. Everyone has a Frame of Reference, and often they have multiple FORs.  For example, in a healthcare environment, a nurse may have a personal FOR, a departmental or work function FOR, and a professional FOR. The ranking of these FORs in importance varies by individual.  

Every change management methodology includes some type of toolkit.  Our proprietary Accelerating Implementation Methodology (AIM) is no exception.  It offers a multitude of tools including assessments, forecasts and templates, because there's no question… checklists, templates, and surveys all have a place, and each has value for change management practitioners.  But some change management methodologies stop there.  They are primarily driven by a set of checklists, templates and tools for Change Agents “to do”—in other words, they are activity based.  

WHAT SHOULD CHANGE ABOUT CHANGE IN 2017

2016 has been a year of dramatic shifts across the world that signal significant changes and disruption in the political world.  What this means for organizations is still not fully known. 

What is predictable, though, is that the ability to change will be even more important.  Those organizations that are adept at implementing new, and often radically different, strategies will thrive. Those that cling to the past and ignore the need for change capability (with sufficient resources attached) will face challenges that may even threaten survival.

Mercy Healthcare is the 5^th largest Catholic Healthcare System in the United States.  They have facilities in 4 states and employ over 40,000 people.  Between the Affordable Healthcare Act, plus sweeping clinical and operational changes, Mercy is typical of the crazy, busy world of healthcare today.  In fact, they are a complex, innovative and forward-thinking organization that considers “change” a constant part of their lives. 

In today’s fast-paced world, no organization has time for unimportant activities. The time your Sponsors and Change Agents spend on implementation needs to be laser-focused on what will really move the dial in getting a change implemented quickly. That’s why it’s crucial to make sure you have what you need to be successful when you’re selecting a change management methodology.  

One of the foundations of IMA’s proprietary Accelerating Implementation Methodology (AIM) is, “In order to achieve value realization, you must first identify the “human objectives” for your change." {Tweet This}  But what exactly are the “human objectives” and why is it so important to pay attention to them? 

The financial investment in a new ERP system, such as Workday or Kronos is enormous and the resource requirements are huge.  But, much to the chagrin of many organizations, for as much money that is going out the door on sophisticated new systems such as these, Return on Investment is not always a guarantee.  Organizations often overlook the significant amount of time and energy required to fully implement these systems! 

Are you in the market for a change management methodology?  Perhaps you’ve never used a structured process before and are facing a daunting, transformational change.  Or maybe you’d like to evaluate your current approach, because what worked for your organization 7 or 10 years ago isn’t working in today's environment. 

How to Change the Way Your Organization Changes 

How do you change the way your organization implements strategic initiatives?  Surely there is a way to get change projects done faster, and more successfully! Yes, there is a way to do these projects better.  And you can start on that path by attending an AIM Accreditation Program.  

Why, you ask?  Here is our 10 top list of reasons YOU should attend!