Kubler Ross change curve

Introduction

While it seems a bit of a reach, enterprising business change leaders saw the correlation between the Kubler Ross model and behaviours exhibited by staff who are subject to change in the workplace.

All organisations initiate change. Changes may be due to legal, political, economic, technological, or other factors. When one strips away branding, offices, and products, organisations are little more than collections of people.

Therefore, when we refer to organisational change, we are talking about personal change. With all change, big or small, change managers must anticipate a certain level of resistance. If staff persist in their old ways, then the money invested will be wasted. Only when the workforce of an organisation makes personal changes can the company enjoy the benefits of change.

Kubler Ross model

The Kubler Ross change curve is a powerful model that can help one understand change and personal transition. It also helps change managers understand how staff might react to change and provide support during the process of change.

The Kubler Ross model is important for change management because it reveals valuable insights into how people face change.

• It is a helpful way to look at change
• It is easily communicated
• It explains many characteristic patterns of response observed in change processes
• It shows how personal performance, energy and mood vary through the normal process of human change.

The change curve is a personal journey. Members of staff do not experience change the same way. Different personalities, life experiences and personal circumstances will affect the way different individuals respond.

Kubler Ross change curve infographic

This infographic shows the Kubler Ross change curve model.