Making Change Happen

In this summary you will learn

• Which factors facilitate change
• Which factors impede it
• How to manage both the causes of and impediments to change
• What the leader's role is in managing change

getAbstract rating

Why you should read Making Change Happen

Ken Matejka and Al Murphy take the principles of change that others have pioneered and present them in an exceptionally clear and applicable fashion. However, for a book on change, this one presents few new ideas. In fact, at times, the authors' statements come close to being hoary platitudes. Still, the book provides good advice - platitudes get that way because they express well-known truths - and its presentation is even better. The book takes the form of a useful manual, with tips, questionnaires, checklists, definitions and diagrams. Name your favorite tool; it's here. However, don't let the book's utility deceive you into thinking that you'll be able to handle even the most revolutionary and disruptive transformations with a little reflection and a clipboard. In real life, change is more complicated than a few checklists. getAbstract recommends this book to beginners to whom the clichés will seem newly minted, and to experienced managers who can take advantage of the organizing tools while retaining their awareness that true change is always a messy business.

About the Authors

Ken Matejka, a professor at Duquesne University, has published five business books, including A Manager's Guide to the Millennium. Al Murphy is an adjunct professor at Duquesne University and a consultant on change.