Change seems to be an inevitable part of grant management (and life, for that matter)—be it keeping up with evolving federal funding requirements, updating processes, or implementing a new grants management software. Although how change is managed has a big impact on your grant-funded programs, it is not likely something you have much time to think about or plan for. We’ve created a number of resources to help. To start with, let’s look at some basics.
As you begin to implement change management in your grant programs, remember to keep it simple:
1. Start early. Begin thinking about change management as soon as possible.
2. Identify decision-makers. Determine who will be the central group or person making decisions during the implementation process. Ensure they have strong support up the chain of command.
3. Plan for socialization. Develop a communication strategy for introducing the changes to different departments and teams. If your organization works in silos, make sure everyone is aware of the upcoming changes.
4. Focus on the benefits. Define how different teams will interact with the change and clearly articulate how it will benefit the individuals and the organization as a whole.
5. Identify pilot groups. Consider running a pilot program of the changes with early adopters to iron out any issues before full implementation.
6. Provide training, tools, and resources. Give your team the know-how and tools they need to adapt to the change successfully. This may include training sessions, written materials, and ongoing support for your updated processes or systems.
To dive deeper into change management, check out these resources:
- Change Management 101 Guide: This resource provides local, state, and tribal government grant managers with strategies for successful change management planning and implementation. Learn how to successfully carry out changes, overcome resistance, and use technology to streamline your grants management process.
- On-Demand Webinar, Managing Change: Foundations for Grants Management Professionals: Whether you’re new to change management or an experienced practitioner, view this webinar–the 2nd in our Survival Tips Series– for an overview of change management, best practices for communicating and implementing change, and tangible examples to help bridge the gap between project management and change management.
If it is time for change, we’re here to help. Our team helps government customers every day to identify and address gaps in their grant management processes, determine how to implement a grant management system to properly support their needs, and ultimately manage the resulting change across their organization.
*Photo by: SrdjanPav Canva
