Change Management

Our Approach

We take a structured, people-centered approach to change management grounded in the Prosci methodology, while intentionally integrating complementary tools and practices to meet the unique needs of each initiative.

Our goal is to ensure that change is not only implemented, but understood, adopted, and sustained across the institution.

Our Core Framework: Prosci (ADKAR)

We primarily leverage the Prosci ADKAR model, a widely used framework focused on enabling successful change at the individual level. 

The ADKAR model outlines five outcomes required for effective change:

• Awareness – Understanding why the change is needed
• Desire – Building willingness to participate and support the change
• Knowledge – Providing information and training on how to change
• Ability – Ensuring individuals can apply new skills and behaviors
• Reinforcement – Sustaining change over time through support and accountability

This framework ensures that change initiatives are not treated solely as technical or process updates, but as human transitions that require engagement, communication, and support.

Beyond Prosci: A Flexible, Integrated Toolkit

While Prosci provides a strong foundation, we do not take a one-size-fits-all approach.

We complement the ADKAR framework with additional methods and tools based on project scope, stakeholder needs, and organizational context.

These may include:

• Stakeholder analysis and engagement strategies to map influence, readiness, and impact
• Communication planning frameworks to ensure clarity, consistency, and transparency
• Training and enablement strategies tailored to different audiences
• Process improvement techniques (e.g., Lean/continuous improvement practices) to align people and process changes
• Other established change frameworks and tools to support organizational-level transformation and leadership alignment where appropriate

This blended approach allows us to apply the right tools at the right time—ensuring change efforts are both structured and adaptable.

What We Deliver

The UPMO supports projects with scalable change management deliverables, including:

• Change impact assessments
• Stakeholder and sponsor plans
• Communication plans and messaging frameworks
• Training and adoption strategies
• Readiness and adoption metrics
• Reinforcement and sustainability planning

Each deliverable is tailored to the complexity and risk level of the initiative, ensuring efficient use of effort while maintaining effectiveness.

Why It Matters

Successful projects depend on more than timelines and technology.
They depend on people understanding, accepting, and adopting change.

By combining a Proven framework (Prosci) with practical, flexible tools, we help the University:

• Increase adoption and engagement
• Reduce resistance and disruption
• Strengthen continuity of operations
• Deliver sustainable, long-term outcomes