This week, one of our valued associates commenced a change management role with a new client to support them on a software implementation project.
Initially, an onsite role, however with the rapid changes of the last few days, this has now become a remote based role with no physical contact with the team or physical business.
What is different about this role to others? Nothing.
Our client made the decision that contractors and non-permanent employees were to remain off-site. They have since transitioned their permanent employees to working from home, ensuring that everyone has the right systems access and equipment they need to continue to operate in their roles.
When our associate was engaged, we provided an Office365 account so they could stay connected with the Change2020 team also enabling access to SharePoint and internal resources required, logins for timesheet and expense systems.
The client provided them with a Skype for business account and access to other systems and documentation required, along with a communication plan/ guideline for the project team to ensure they are meeting regularly and know who to go to for what, and what communication method is best.
The key here is trust and communication:
Trust: Our client has trusted us that our associates are capable, committed and trusted to work without being physically present. They understand what is required and what outcomes they need to deliver and have the integrity to ensure that they do this to the highest standard they, we and our clients expect.
Communication: With so many channels for communication there is no reason that conversational communication can’t take place outside of formal meetings. These include video conferencing apps and software such as Zoom, Skype for Business, Teams, Messenger and FaceTime, with screensharing and group chat functionality, as well as more traditional communication methods such as email and phone. Messenger apps can be used for quick questions, document management and collaboration tools such as SharePoint can be used for document sharing and review.
In uncertain and stressful times, where the situation and advice changes from one day to the next, our client successfully created a situation where they had access to the expertise they needed in a manner that suited both them and our associate and the same outcomes will still be achieved. Many of our engagements involve remote working by our associates and we are confident this will become the norm whilst business continues in these rapidly changing times.
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As organisational change consultants, we’re experts in helping people through change. We understand change can be a difficult, frustrating and messy process, which is why we deliver practical and flexible support to help you and your team navigate new territory.
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