Beyond Corporate Transformation: A Whole Systems Approach to Creating and Sustaining High Performance

"This book describes a process through which corporate leaders can create a high-performance organization capable of sustaining a lasting competitive advantage. It is an approach that takes into consideration all of the factors that affect organizational performance. By examining the whole organization, and by aligning its systems, structure, and culture to enable all employees to excell and execute the company's chosen strategy, corporate leaders can successfully transform their organization...Although targeted at corporate leaders, this book will benefit anyone interested or involved in any aspect of organizational change. By understanding the components of organizational change, frontline employees and middle-level managers alike can more effectively participate in and guide the change effort in their part of the organization. A successful organizational transformation is never the sole accomplishment of a leader and his or her senior team. Rather, the transformation is achieved through the hard work and commitment of all types of leaders througout the entire organization" (from the Preface).In this context, Christopher W. Head:* by asking/answering some critical questions such as What is going wrong? Why are so many change efforts failing? What is an organizational transformation? defines organizational transformation and indicates key factors to a successful transformation.* by both asking/answering the following questions: What characteristics do transformational leaders possess? What must these leaders do in order to prepare their organizations for all of the difficult challenges that lie ahead? and comparing transformational leaders and traditional/transactional leaders, discusses the leadership factor for a successful corporate transformation.* explains how leaders can lead effective change by creating an environment that fosters participation and ownership, and presents a detailed change management plan (more detailed discussion of this plan see Chapter 3).* by asking/answering the following questions: How can leaders create a work environment that fosters high-levels of involvement from all of their employees? What are the elements that truly empower and involve all employees? How do organizations benefit from having an empowered workforce after the transformation process has been completed? discusses the steps needed to establish a high level of employee involvement within organization.* by asking/answering the following questions: What is the best way of getting employees committed to leading the change effort? What are the transition teams? Why should they be used? Who should be on these teams and how should team members be selected? What are their core responsibilities? What kind of assistance do these teams need from top management and internal or external consultants? How should transition teams involve customers and suppliers in their work? examines the role of employees and employee team

Beyond Corporate Transformation provides a refreshing view about organization change. While many consultants get caught up in their terminology, the author, Chris Head, seems to be genuinely concerned that the reader gain something useful from his book. This book is great for anyone who doesn't have an understanding of whole system design or who would like a process for implementation. The author's key point that the future organization cannot succeed without tapping into each employee's potential should be heeded by all organizations.