InfographicFoundation Introduction to the change curve

Introduction to the change curveLearn the fundamentals of the P3O project management office.The

The Practitioner change curvechange curveIncludes Foundation & Practitioner combined option. is a powerful model that helps to understand and manage the emotional responses individuals and organisations experience during transitions. Inspired by Elisabeth Kübler-Ross’s work on terminal illness patients, the change curve has been adapted to depict the stages of personal and organisational change. By mapping emotional responses, it provides a framework for predicting reactions and offering necessary support. is a powerful model that helps to understand and manage the emotional responses individuals and organisations experience during transitions. Inspired by Elisabeth Kübler-Ross’s work on terminal illness patients, the change curve has been adapted to depict the stages of personal and organisational change. By mapping emotional responses, it provides a framework for predicting reactions and offering necessary support.WorkshopsDefinition of the change curveDefinition of the change curveIntroduction to Project Management The change curve illustrates the psychological phases individuals experience when faced with change. Initially derived from the study of grief, this model has been adapted to depict the transition stages within organisational contexts. In organisational contexts, it typically progresses through The change curve illustrates the psychological phases individuals experience when faced with change. Initially derived from the study of grief, this model has been adapted to depict the transition stages within organisational contexts. In organisational contexts, it typically progresses through 1-day workshop to learn the basics of project management.shock and denialshock and denialProject Management Essentials , , 2-day workshop to learn how to manage projects without getting certified.anger and fear

anger and fearWriting Business Cases ,

, Half-day workshop to learn to write robust business cases.depression and confusion

• depression and confusionAI in Project Management , and ultimately Learn how to use AI tools in everyday project work.
• acceptance and integrationARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI). By understanding these stages, leaders can anticipate challenges and prepare strategies to effectively support their teams.BCS AI
• Importance of understanding the change curveFoundation For managers, grasping the change curve’s nuances is crucial for effective Learn the fundamentals of artificial intellegence.

change managementAI Project Governance Framework (AIPGF)

. It equips them to anticipate emotional hurdles and offer timely support, thereby reducing stress and enhancing resilience. By aligning leadership strategies with this model, organisations can facilitate smoother transitions, ensuring both individual well-being and collective productivity.Foundation

Stages of the change curveLearn the fundamentals of the governance framework.

The change curve shows how people move through emotional stages during organisational change. Understanding these five stages helps leaders guide their teams effectively.Practitioner Stage 1. Shock and denialIncludes Foundation & Practitioner combined option.People first react to change with shock and denial. They might ignore the changes or deny how these affect their work. This natural defensive response gives people time to process what is happening.WorkshopsStage 2. Anger and fearAI in Project Management When reality becomes clear, people often feel angry and fearful. They worry about their future and may resist changes actively. This reaction can strain team relationships and affect work quality. Leaders need to address worries openly through clear communication.Learn how to use AI tools in everyday project work.

Stage 3. Exploration and bargainingAGILEPeople start exploring what the change means. They suggest different approaches or try to negotiate aspects of the change. Although this might look like resistance, it shows people are beginning to engage with the changes. This stage offers chances to involve team members in planning.AgilePMStage 4. Depression and confusion®

As people understand what change truly means, they might lose motivation and confidence. Work quality and team spirit often decrease as everyone adjusts to new ways. Leaders should offer extra support and clear guidance during this difficult time. – Agile Project Management

Stage 5. Acceptance and integrationFoundation

Finally, people begin to accept and work well with the changes. They notice new opportunities and benefits, leading to better engagement and fresh ideas. This shows successful movement through the change curve.Learn the key principles of Agile Project Management.Leaders who understand these stages can support their teams properly, helping create successful Practitioner organisational changeIncludes Foundation & Practitioner combined option..PRINCE2

• Benefits of understanding the change curve®Understanding the Agile
• change curveFoundation offers significant advantages to both leaders and teams. It provides a framework for navigating transitions effectively, ensuring that organisational change is managed smoothly. Recognising the emotional stages individuals experience allows for strategic interventions that can mitigate resistance and enhance acceptance.Learn the fundamentals of the PRINCE2 Agile method.
• Improved change managementPractitioner Grasping the change curve enables leaders to anticipate emotional reactions and plan appropriate responses. By knowing which stage their team members are in, leaders can tailor their communication and support strategies. This anticipation reduces disruptions and resistance, making the change more manageable. Furthermore, it facilitates a proactive approach to addressing concerns, ensuring that transitions are smoother and less stressful.Includes Foundation & Practitioner combined option.
• Enhanced team moraleScrumEffectively navigating the change curve can significantly boost Scrum Essentials
• team moraleSelf-paced training course to learn the essentials of Scrum. and productivity. By providing support that aligns with each stage, leaders can foster a sense of security and trust. This approach helps in reducing anxiety and stress, as individuals feel understood and supported. When teams see that their leaders are attuned to their emotional journeys, it enhances engagement and commitment, ultimately leading to a more motivated and cohesive workforce.Scrum Master
• Strategies for guiding teams through the change curveChoose Scrum Alliance or Scrum.org Scrum Master training courses.Successfully guiding a team through the Scrum Product Owner

change curveChoose Scrum Alliance or Scrum.org Product Owner training courses.

requires thoughtful strategies. These strategies should address communication, support, and progress monitoring. By implementing these approaches, leaders can facilitate smoother transitions and foster a positive environment.AgileBA

Communication strategies®Effective – Agile Business AnalysiscommunicationFoundation is crucial at every stage of the change curve. Leaders must tailor their messages to the team’s current emotional state. During the initial stages of shock and denial, it is important to provide clear, concise information to alleviate uncertainty. As the team progresses through anger and bargaining, open forums for discussion can help address concerns and reduce frustration. In the later stages, such as acceptance and integration, reinforcing positive outcomes and recognising achievements can boost morale. Consistent and empathetic communication helps in maintaining trust and engagement throughout the process.Learn the fundamentals of Agile Business Analysis.Support and trainingPractitioner Providing ongoing 4-day course including Foundation.support and trainingLean Six Sigma is essential to help team members adapt to change. Training programmes can equip individuals with the skills needed for new roles or processes, reducing anxiety and promoting confidence. Additionally, offering emotional support through coaching and counselling services can address personal challenges faced during transitions. Leaders should encourage a culture of learning and adaptability, where team members feel supported in acquiring new competencies and embracing change.Yellow Belt Monitoring progressSelf-paced training course to gain LSS Yellow Belt.

Regularly PMI

{"@context":"https://schema.org","@type":"ImageObject","contentUrl":"https://www.knowledgetrain.co.uk/training-courses/change-management-model-kubler-ross-890x501.webp","description":"The Kubler Ross model is known as the change curve.","license":"https://www.knowledgetrain.co.uk/license","acquireLicensePage":"https://www.knowledgetrain.co.uk/license","creditText":"Knowledge Train","uploadDate":"2023-05-16T10:10:48.000Z","copyrightNotice":"© 2023 Knowledge Train Limited. All rights reserved.","creator":{"@type":"Organization","name":"Knowledge Train","url":"https://www.knowledgetrain.co.uk"}} {"@context":"https://schema.org","@type":"ImageObject","contentUrl":"https://www.knowledgetrain.co.uk/training-courses/res/images/change-management/kubler-ross-model-change-management-800x4784.webp","description":"Kubler Ross Change Curve Infographic.","license":"https://www.knowledgetrain.co.uk/license","acquireLicensePage":"https://www.knowledgetrain.co.uk/license","creditText":"Knowledge Train","uploadDate":"2023-05-16T10:10:48.000Z","copyrightNotice":"© 2023 Knowledge Train Limited. All rights reserved.","creator":{"@type":"Organization","name":"Knowledge Train","url":"https://www.knowledgetrain.co.uk"}}

Related articles

Guiding your team through change using the Satir change model

Simon Buehring

23 Feb 2026

Learn how the Satir change model can guide your team effectively. Discover practical steps to minimise resistance and enhance engagement. Scroll down to unlock strategic insights.

Navigating organisational change successfully with Kotter’s model

IT Learning Library (ITLL)™Simon BuehringBusiness solutions19 Feb 2026_blank

AboutExplore Kotter's 8-step model to navigate organisational change effectively. Understand each phase and enhance your transformation strategy. Keep reading to refine your change management skills.

FAQs PRINCE2 AGILE COURSES: Recognise achievements to reinforce positive behaviour. Group causes into clear categories, using standard headings or custom ones that fit your context.spike (or spiking)

How do fishbone diagrams differ from other problem-solving tools? Select your preferred training course below:Continuous feedback Review the diagram during the session to catch overlaps, duplicates, and missing factors early.A short-term work initiative aimed at gaining more insight about a specific situation, often used to reduce uncertainty from a technical or customer viewpoint.

Fishbone diagrams make it easier to see all possible causes of a problem by sorting them into clear categories. This visual organisation helps teams spot patterns and connections. : Provide regular updates and feedback to maintain momentum. Prioritise likely high-impact causes using simple ranking or voting before investigating solutions.sprint

How can I use fishbone diagrams for personal problems? BETTER BUSINESS CASES COURSESAdjust strategiesChange management skills A pre-set period (usually 2-4 weeks) designated for creating selected features from the product backlog.

Create categories relevant to your personal challenge, such as daily habits, environment, and relationships. Then list potential causes under each category to understand what’s affecting your situation.Change management skillsSelect your preferred training course below:: Be flexible and willing to adapt strategies based on feedback. sprint zero

What software tools can assist in creating fishbone diagrams? Monitoring progressSimon Buehring An initial sprint designed to handle many upfront activities such as forming a te

Microsoft Visio offers professional templates, while Lucidchart and Canva provide user-friendly online options with drag-and-drop features.am, defining the vision, outlining the architecture, etc.Simon BuehringP3O COURSESMonitoring progress involves:19 Feb 2026Contents

How often should a fishbone diagram be revisited?stand-up meeting19 Feb 2026Select your preferred training course below:Performance metrics

Review your diagram monthly, when new problems arise, or when you make major changes to your process or team.A brief meeting to assess progress, often lasting 15 minutes or less, where work done, work to be done, and any challenges encountered are discussed. : Track key indicators to assess change impact.Discover the essential skills required for effective change management and how they apply to unique organizational contexts. Read further for detailed insights.

Are there any limitations to using fishbone diagrams?supplier subject matter expertDiscover the essential skills required for effective change management and how they apply to unique organizational contexts. Read further for detailed insights.WORKSHOPSRegular reviews Contents

Fishbone diagrams work well for identifying causes but may not show how strongly each cause affects the problem. They also rely on your team’s knowledge to be effective.A role within the delivery team that provides technical skills to create and initially quality-check the project product. Also known as the supplier SME. Select your preferred workshop below:: Schedule periodic evaluations to identify areas for improvement.

InfographicBack to top Feedback channels Introduction to fishbone diagrams