This Paper Requires You To Identify A Current Change In An O ✓ Solved

This Paper Requires You To Identify A Current Change In An Organizatio

This paper requires you to identify a current change in an organization with which you are familiar and evaluate a current public issue about which “something must be done.” In relation to the change issue, consider what sense-making changes might need to be enacted and how you would go about doing this. Assess this in terms of the eight (8) elements of the sense-making framework suggested by Helms Mills and as set out in Table 9.7: Identity construction, Social sense-making, Extracted cues, Ongoing sense-making, Retrospection, Plausibility, Enactment, and Projection. Reflect on which elements you believe you might have the most or least control over and explain why. Discuss the implications of this control (or lack thereof) for adopting a sense-making approach to organizational change.

Sample Paper For Above instruction

Introduction

Organizational change is a complex process that often involves multiple facets of sense-making to facilitate effective adaptation and transformation. This paper examines a current change occurring within a healthcare organization and evaluates a pressing public issue that necessitates immediate action. By applying Helms Mills’ sense-making framework, the analysis explores the political, social, and psychological dimensions involved in enacting this change, along with the degrees of control available within each element.

Context of the Organizational Change

The selected organization is a mid-sized hospital that is transitioning from traditional in-person outpatient services to a more integrated telehealth model. This change is driven by the need to improve patient access, reduce costs, and adapt to technological advancements accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic. The public issue associated with this change pertains to concerns over data security and patient privacy, which have been prominent in recent discussions about telehealth expansion.

Public Issue and Its Urgency

The core public issue is ensuring that the rapid deployment of telehealth services does not compromise patient confidentiality and data security. With cyber threats increasing, there is a critical need for the organization to adopt rigorous security protocols and transparent communication strategies. The urgency stems from potential legal liabilities, loss of public trust, and the ethical obligation to protect patient information.

Applying Sense-Making Framework

Identity Construction

Within the organization, identity construction revolves around positioning as a modern, patient-centric healthcare provider committed to innovation and security. Leaders aim to foster a culture that values technological advancement while maintaining trustworthiness. This identity influences how change initiatives are communicated and prioritized.

Social Sense-Making

Social sense-making involves engaging stakeholders—staff, patients, regulators—in discussions about the change. Transparent dialogue helps to align perceptions, address fears related to data breaches, and generate shared understanding of new protocols. The social narrative must reinforce the organization’s commitment to safety and modernization.

Extracted Cues

Relevant cues include technological announcements, media reports on cyber threats, regulatory guidelines, and feedback from frontline staff about workflow challenges. These cues shape ongoing perceptions and help identify areas requiring immediate attention.

Ongoing Sense-Making

As the transition progresses, continuous feedback loops and monitoring allow the organization to adapt strategies dynamically. Regular meetings, data audits, and stakeholder surveys serve as mechanisms for ongoing sense-making, ensuring the change remains aligned with organizational goals and public expectations.

Retrospection

Retrospection involves reflecting on previous change initiatives within the organization, such as implementing electronic health records. Lessons learned emphasize the importance of stakeholder engagement and clear communication, which inform current practices around data security.

Plausibility

Constructing plausible narratives around the safety and efficacy of telehealth helps to build legitimacy and trust. Explaining the technical safeguards and compliance measures enhances the credibility of the change, reducing resistance.

Enactment

Enactment occurs through the implementation of security protocols, staff training, and communication campaigns. This element reflects how the organization’s members bring the sense-making frames into action, operationalizing the change at every level.

Projection

Future projections involve imagining the organization’s reputation as a secure and innovative healthcare provider. Leaders envision increased patient trust and expanded services, which motivate continued efforts and refinement of practices.

Control and Its Implications

I believe I have the most control over the enactment element, as this involves direct actions such as enforcing protocols and training staff. Conversely, I have less control over social sense-making, as perceptions and narratives are shaped by external stakeholders and broader societal attitudes. Recognizing these control factors emphasizes the importance of strategic communication and stakeholder engagement approaches in managing change effectively. It suggests that a sense-making approach must be adaptable, acknowledging areas where influence is limited while leveraging areas of higher control to reinforce the change process.

Conclusion

Applying Helms Mills’ sense-making framework offers valuable insights into managing organizational change amid complex public issues. Understanding the limits of control across different elements helps leaders design more effective strategies for communication, engagement, and implementation, ultimately facilitating smoother transitions and sustainable change.

References

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