COMM : Applied Organizational Communication Instructor: Dan Lair Day Nineteen: Change October 31, 2005

Today’s Agenda Quick note on Case Studies Overview of Change Discussion of DeWine General Discussion of Zaltman and Duncan Group Activity (and Consultation)

(Review): Understanding the Nature of Change The Discourse of Change: Change for Change’s Sake – What are the implications for consultants? The Meaning of Change: – Change v. Innovation – Assumptions about Change – Dimensions of Change – Types of Change

Questions on DeWine, Chapter 15 What does it mean to describe consultants as “change agents?” How does such a description relate to Harrison’s discussion of consulting as a “rhetorical situation?” On p. 347, DeWine quotes Ferguson & Ferguson (1988) as saying, “The most useful tool in a consultant’s kit to effect organizational change is not a sledgehammer, but a mirror.” What does that mean? What are the implications of such a statement?

Questions on Zaltman and Duncan

Signs of Resistance Note: Resistance occurs not only in the context of change, so this discussion is applicable more generally….. Overt Resistance: Hirshman’s Typology – Exit – Voice – Loyalty – Neglect “Covert” Resistance: – Symbolic resistance – “Literal” rule-following: Malicious obedience and regressing – Hidden Transcripts

Group Activity: Sources of Resistance Purpose: To enhance your ability to apply readings to “real life” situations…. Directions: Working in your (project) groups, create a chart summarizing Zaltman and Duncan’s classification of the major categories and subcategories of change. Will continue through beginning of class on Wed.: your chart will count as an in-class activity….