Mastering Change with CAP: A Practical Guide

Change Acceleration Process (CAP) – Revolutionising Change Management

The Change Acceleration Process (CAP) is an innovative approach rooted in over 25 years of success at General Electric, led by the visionary Jack Welch. This model is a cornerstone for organisational transformation and works seamlessly with Lean and Six Sigma methodologies.

What is the Change Acceleration Process (CAP) Model?

The Change Acceleration Process (CAP) model is a practical and proven framework for managing change, featuring seven key focus areas. Its primary goal is to enhance acceptance and maximise the impact of changes. Often combined with Lean and Six Sigma methods, the CAP model ensures that all stakeholders are on board, making the change process central and structured. This approach helps implement changes effectively within the organisational culture and structure, leading to sustainable improvements.

How Did the Change Acceleration Process (CAP) Model Originate?

The CAP model was developed by General Electric (GE), a pioneer in Lean and Lean Six Sigma implementations. GE realised that change implementation was often challenging. To address this, GE created the CAP model, featuring seven steps to ensure a structured and effective change process. Today, many organisations worldwide use the CAP model to successfully manage changes.

The Seven Steps of the Change Acceleration Process (CAP) Model

1. Leading Change: The first step is all about getting leadership on board to drive the change process. Leaders are essential in guiding the transformation. They need to create a clear vision for the future and inspire others to embrace the change.
2. Creating a Shared Need: Next, you need to make sure everyone understands why the change is important and urgent. People should know why the change is necessary and what could happen if nothing changes.
3. Shaping a Vision: In this step, you outline a clear and compelling vision of the desired outcome. This helps everyone see and understand the shared goal.
4. Mobilising Commitment: This step is about involving all the key stakeholders in the change process. By engaging everyone, you create a sense of shared responsibility and increase the likelihood of acceptance.
5. Making Change Last: Here, you ensure that the changes are not just temporary but are embedded into the organisational culture and structure for the long term.
6. Monitoring Progress: This step involves implementing improvements and continuously measuring progress. It’s important to track results and make necessary adjustments along the way.
7. Changing Systems and Structures: Finally, you install new processes, roles, and responsibilities that align with the new vision and goals of the organisation. It’s crucial that these new elements fit well with the changed structure and culture.

CAP in Action: From Current State to Improved State

CAP places a strong emphasis on gaining support and buy-in throughout the change journey, making transitions smoother and helping move from the current state to a desired future state. Properly applying the CAP model allows organisations to navigate their path more effectively, unlocking numerous opportunities and achieving significant accomplishments.

Example of the Change Acceleration Process (CAP) Model in a Hospital

Let’s imagine a hospital aiming to improve patient care by working more efficiently and reducing waste using Lean methodologies.

1. Activating Leadership: The hospital director starts by involving the management team and chief physicians. In a meeting, they explain the vision and benefits of Lean. Leaders are encouraged to actively guide the change process and set an example for the staff.
2. Creating Urgency: The management team organises information sessions for all employees to highlight the need for change. They discuss current issues like long waiting times, inefficient processes, and staff stress. They also share case studies from other hospitals that have successfully implemented Lean.
3. Shaping the Future Vision: The hospital crafts an inspiring vision of the desired future, including shorter waiting times, more efficient care processes, and higher patient satisfaction. They use visual aids like flowcharts and videos to communicate this vision to all staff.
4. Mobilising Engagement: The hospital organises workshops and forms multidisciplinary teams to plan and implement the change. Care providers, nurses, and administrative staff are involved to share ideas and take responsibility for the process.
5. Anchoring in the Organisation: To ensure the changes are sustainable, Lean principles are integrated into daily routines and training. New protocols are established and documented to maintain the changes.
6. Realising and Monitoring Improvements: The hospital starts implementing Lean methodologies like 5S and Kaizen, continuously measuring the results. They use KPIs such as waiting times, patient satisfaction, and process turnaround times to monitor progress and make necessary adjustments.
7. Installing New Organisational Elements: The hospital adjusts its organisational structure to support the new working methods. New roles and responsibilities, such as Lean coordinators, are created, and the necessary training and resources are provided to ensure these roles are fulfilled successfully.

Unlocking Success with CAP: Key Takeaways

• Get Leaders on Board: Make sure your leadership is committed to pushing the change forward.
• Create a Sense of Urgency: Help everyone understand why the change is important right now.
• Share the Vision: Clearly communicate what the change will look like and why it matters.
• Engage Everyone: Get all the key players involved and motivated to make the change happen.
• Make It Stick: Integrate the new processes into the everyday culture so they last.
• Keep an Eye on Progress: Set up ways to continuously monitor and measure how things are going.
• Align Structures with Vision: Ensure new roles and processes support the overall change goals.

Embrace Change with CAP

In today’s fast-changing business environment, embracing change isn’t just an option; it’s a necessity. With the Change Acceleration Process (CAP) model as your guiding light, you can confidently navigate your change journey. This tried-and-tested roadmap helps you overcome challenges and achieve outcomes that truly make a difference.