What is Change & Transition?

In a broader context, transitions refer to the process of moving from one state, stage, or situation to another. Some key points about managing transitions during any change process are:

Transitions involve leaving something behind (an old way of doing things, a role, an environment) while also taking up something new.

There is a period of disorientation and adjustment as the change occurs and the new state is adopted. Transitions require letting go of aspects of the old reality and developing new attitudes, behaviours, processes etc. to align with the new situation.

Effective transitions involve ending the old state properly, getting through the disruptive transition period, and then beginning anew with the changed circumstances.

Managing transitions well requires communication, planning, training, leadership support, and allowing time for people to internalise and adapt to the changes.

Even positive changes like promotions or system upgrades still put people through a transition process with periods of uncertainty and adjustment.

In essence, any significant change forces a transition – psychologically, emotionally and practically - as people transition from how things used to be, to how they will need to operate going forward after the change occurs. Skilfully managing that transitional process is key for successful organisational change implementation and growth.