Considering Changes in 2011? Read this first.

Companies often set stretch goals for a new year and leave it to the staff to figure out how to change their departments to reach them. When considering changes, determining what to change to meet your goals and how to properly effect those changes can be a challenge. David Shedd, in his article Three Critical Mistakes That Are Made When Companies Go Through Changes, points out these common mistakes: 1) changing too many things, 2) changing the wrong things, or 3) skipping important steps.

Focus your change initiatives on the few vital improvements needed to move your company to the next level. Make sure your root cause assessments clearly identify what is needed to change to make the improvement. Don’t skip any steps on the path. Ensure your company heads into 2011 with a clear plan for improvement to meet your goals.