Developing a Communication Plan Sylvia Marie Long AET/560 August 22, 2016 Instructor Melanie Latin

As a change leader for the University of Phoenix, the developing plan is created to help manage communication in order to embrace the desired change. The plan will equip and prepare participating employees on: How to understand and overcome resistance to change The secrets to working effectively when everything is changing How to increase risk-taking behavior and become more flexible The 5 stages of adjustment following a dramatic change Ways to handle workplace anxiety

How to launch the communication plan? To launch the communication plan, as the change leader, communication using the open door policy is the most critical form. Communication helps the plan transition smoothly because everyone is involved and they will all know what to expect in the process and the expectation from each employee during the transition. Clear expectations eliminate a lot of sidebar conversations and false accusations.

Technology needed to accomplish the plan Provided the University of Phoenix is a global online learning tool, as well as a landline facility in various states; it is necessary to access a technology to reach all areas and make available the same information. The webinar is an excellent technology tool that can reach all employees at the same time based on their time zone. It is important to make sure everyone receives the same process of change that is taking place. Again the more information employees understand about to change the less resistant they become. Webinar gives the opportunity of not only seeing and hearing the same information at the same time but it also gives opportunity for questions from employees.

How to test the webinar’s effectiveness and the impact of management’s response to the organizational change? It is important to receive feedback on the use of any tool or form of a process used in the change process. It is critical to know the effectiveness of the tool. The webinar offers an opportunity for a question and answers period during or after the presentation depending on the facilitator. The best way to determine the effectiveness is to have the learners complete a survey. The survey can be provided for the University of Phoenix online employees as well as those located at designated locations. The survey is specific to the developing plan for changes. If there is noted any unclear information one of two processes can follow. There can be another short webinar provided to cover areas that were unclear or the change leader at the designated location can provide feedback on the information stated as unclear. Communication again is a key factor for change.

How to generate feedback for continuous improvement? The purpose of feedback is to determine when and where changes are needed. It also helps to determine how often changes or modification need to take place. The University of Phoenix is an ongoing global educational facility that has the comfort of online learning as well as the location in several states. Changes are frequently needed because technology, economics, and individuals changes are constant.

How to address negative responses or communications about the change? Feedback from surveys and any other form of communication may give positive as well as negative responses. Any reply is great whether positive or negative. A positive reaction will let the change leader know that particular area is good, and there is no need to change or modify the area. A negative response gives the change manager insight that a change or modification is necessary. The best way to address the negative response is to do an analysis to determine the exact need. Because society is constantly changing it is important for the University of Phoenix. Education changes daily because of the advancement of technology, so it is critical to do routine and timely surveys for feedback positive as well as negative.

How my communication plan as the change leader can help produce organizational change? The webinar training used as the communication plan will help the employees understand and see the need for change. It will display some of their shared opinions how to assist the employees better. If the employees and the school requirements completed then, there are better opportunities available for the students. For example, many adult learners have a busy and hectic schedule. Therefore, UoP has provided online education for adults. Now because of online learning, millions of adults across the globe can participate.

The communication plan will also help employee adjust to overcoming: 5 stages of adjusting to change Denial Anger Bargaining Depression Acceptance Some of these barriers may not be just job related but could be the effect of changes in an employee’s personal life.

In my conclusion, effective communication can break down many barriers that will prevent University of Phoenix of becoming the best it can be.