4.2.7 Lewin’s 3 Step Change Model

Question 1

what are the three steps in Lewin’s change model

Answer 1

unfreeze, change, refreeze

Question 2

Describe Lewin’s 3 step change model

Answer 2

Lewin’s theory states that in order for change to be successful, a business must UNFREEZE, meaning preparing the organisation and disrupting its current position using timelines and guiding the planning process. Step two is to move the business to its new position by actually introducing the CHANGE by adapting employee/management behaviour and moving towards the achievement of objectives by altering the business and finally, REFREEZING, where reinforcement of the change occurs after measuring the achievement of objectives and overcoming any issues so that the change becomes part of the accepted culture of the business.

Question 3

what is unfreeze in Lewin’s change model

Answer 3

This first stage is about preparing the business for change prior to the actual change taking place. For a business this stage involves removing resistance to
change and motivating and preparing stakeholders to embark on the change. There is a strong relationship here with Lewin’s Force Field Analysis, for if the
driving forces for change outweigh the restraining forces there should be sufficient motivation to embark on a successful change process.
This includes removing any obstacles that will impede your change (overcome restraining forces) and developing a planning team and set time-lines.

Question 4

what is change in Lewin’s change model

Answer 4

In this ‘transition’ stage, new processes or practices may be introduced to the business and it is expected that this will typically be a period of confusion and some natural fear may be evident in the employees. To counter this: Check new policies and procedures are being followed and are effective. As well as
gain feedback on how the change is progressing.

Question 5

what is refreeze in Lewin’s change model

Answer 5

This stage is about returning the business to a new sense of stability. This may involve anchoring the change and developing, encouraging stakeholders to see the change is a normal part of the businesses culture/operations. You do this by using data/KPI’s to prove the success of the change through recognizing employees that have made the change and rewarding them, and celebrating success

Question 6

advantages of Lewin’s 3 step change model

Answer 6

• By taking time to put a plan in place and establish objectives when unfreezing, employees will have a clear direction and understanding of the change before it occurs.
• By refreezing the change, and rewarding employees for successful change, the business is more likely to find the change becomes accepted long term and is anchored into the culture of the
  business.

Question 7

disadvantages of Lewin’s 3 step change model

Answer 7

• Lewin’s theory takes a lot of time as there are 3 steps and this may reduce the productivity of the business as management and employees are engaged in meetings/trials/communication of the
  change.
• Competitors may be able to introduce change more quickly and be more proactive rather than waiting for each of Lewin’s 3 steps to be achieved, therefore gaining a competitive advantage.