Businesses are making changes at a pace that was thought unimaginable even five years ago. Many factors play a part in the changes, such as customer demands, technology advances, and rivalries. Business change is more complicated and demanding than in the past. The number one priority in any change project is the people factor.

Customers have higher expectations than in the past. The other people who prioritize are the employees, vendors, stakeholders, consultants, and any other person that will be affected by the change. Preparing all people is a crucial first step to get them to be a partner in the changes.

Transparency is key throughout the project. Employees of affected areas will feel threatened just by hearing the word change or transformation in a project. The earlier that “how does this affect me?” can be answered, the smoother the adjustments will be for everyone.