Transformation needs Support from the Top

Successful transformations have strong support from the top. In fact, it's an even stronger statement to the organization when the transformation is initiated from the top. It's much harder for those who are in opposition to the change if they have to ignore the leader of the organization than anyone else below that person.

However, many transformations are started by mid-level managers who recognize that their teams need to change the way they do things. In order to change, they need the support of key stakeholders in the organization.

While any transformation is a leap of faith, it's much easier to get others on board when there's proof. The pilot team approach to transformation helps leaders who want to show, on a small scale, what change can do. And demonstrate what it really means to transform. And then ask senior leaders to scale the approach across the organization. It's much easier to agree on facts than on opinions.