The third transformation in our series is Cultural/Organizational Transformation and this area is one not often considered during the planning and onset of a digital transformation. Yet, one could argue it’s the most important aspect of any type of transformation. And, it involves substantial change in all areas of an organization. While a digital or agile transformation may begin with technology and in the technical echelons of an organization, with a nod to human resources departments, a true transformation involves substantial consideration of a company’s organizational structure, reporting framework, and overall goals. Rather than have traditional “departments”, based on a company’s Cultural/Organizational Transformation goals, organizations of the future will include “pods” of people with varying capabilities (sales, marketing, finance, manufacturing, logistics/distribution, etc.) but where all pod members are focused on more customer-centric work and results. This also can change the financial structure of a company. Imagine a company where a “department” is an ecosystem of capabilities, not the traditional departments and organizational structure in most companies today. Agile takes on a whole new meaning in this context. By getting closer to the clients and customers and those served by an organization, solutions can be implemented that drive growth, enhanced service, and improved results for the end customer. This type of organizational structure allows for quicker reaction to changing market dynamics, and the ability to truly pivot and perform.

A solid change strategy that includes clear communication is the best way to implement a cultural and organizational transformation since this effort crosses (and crisscrosses) the entire organization, including decentralized decision making. The pace of digital and technology sophistication will continue to speed along, and as organizations lace up their running shoes, a consistent approach, along with an “organizational (everyone in the company) growth mindset” is essential. As a leader in project and change management, Change 4 Growth can provide insightful consulting and an innovative platform to help plan and execute consistently, with robust reporting (key to achieving results) that sets your organization up for success – now and in the future.

About the Author: Carla Cole

With responsibilities that include growing Change 4 Growth, diversifying our solution offerings, and helping to get the right folks in the right place at the right time, Carla Cole enjoys the pace and the challenge. She serves a team that includes dynamic organizational change management, human resource and leadership development professionals, stellar project management folks, as well as a great recruiting and staffing team. Having extensive experience in sales, building high-performing teams, training and organizational development and staffing, she has been involved in technology implementations and process change initiatives in healthcare, banking, finance, insurance, manufacturing and distribution. Carla’s commitment to serving clients and associates sets a high bar for increased organizational optimization and alignment, with measurable results and client delight. She loves what she does. The fact that every day is an adventure is just fine with her!