Capture

The Capture Phase is the initial step in the 3C Change Management Model, where the process of identifying and initiating change begins. This phase is crucial for clearly understanding the needed change and laying the groundwork for a successful change management process.

Aspects of the Capture Phase

1. Identification of Change Needs

   • The Capture Phase begins when any employee within the organisation identifies a need for change, whether through observation, feedback, or analysis of performance metrics. This recognition can stem from various sources, including shifts in market demand, technological advancements, or internal operational inefficiencies. A proactive approach to identifying these needs is essential, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and responsiveness within the organisation (Cameron & Green, 2015; Hiatt, 2006).

2. Change Request Submission

   • Once a change need is identified, the initiating employee is responsible for notifying relevant stakeholders and completing a change management request form. This document serves as a formal record of the proposed change, detailing the nature of the change, its rationale, and the expected outcomes. Ensuring the request form is comprehensive and transparent is vital, as it will guide subsequent phases of the change management process (Kotter, 1996).

3. Stakeholder Engagement

   • Engaging stakeholders early is essential for building support and considering diverse perspectives. Stakeholders may include team members, department heads, and external partners who will be affected by the change. Their input can provide valuable insights and help identify potential challenges that may arise later in the change process (Burnes, 2017; Cummings & Worley, 2014).

4. Initial Assessment of Impact

   • In addition to documenting the change request, the change manager or initiator should conduct an initial assessment of the potential impact of the change on the organisation. This includes considering how the change may affect processes, personnel, and overall operations. This preliminary evaluation helps to frame the change in a broader organisational context and informs the decision-making process as the request moves to the next phase (Anderson & Anderson, 2010).

5. Authorization for Review

   • After completing the change management request form, it must be submitted for authorised approval. This step ensures that the proposed change is recognised at a higher level within the organisation and paves the way for a thorough review by the change manager. This review is crucial for assessing the feasibility and relevance of the proposed change before it is further considered and acted upon (Kotter, 1996).

The Capture Phase of the 3C Change Management Model is foundational to the success of any change initiative. Organisations can set the stage for a more structured and strategic approach to managing change by ensuring that needs are identified, documented, and communicated effectively. This phase facilitates clarity and alignment among stakeholders and lays the groundwork for the subsequent phases of consideration and conduct, where the change will be further evaluated and implemented.

For more information on change management and the 3C Change Model, you can refer to sources such as Kotter’s Leading Change (1996), Cameron & Green’s Making Sense of Change Management (2015), and Hiatt’s ADKAR: A Model for Change in Business, Government, and our Community (2006).

Example Workflow