Comprehensive and Detailed In-Depth Explanation:
John Kotter’s 8-Step Process for Leading Change is a foundational model in the APMG Change Management Foundation. The question targets reducing doubters’ impact via early achievements. Let’s analyze each step:
•Kotter’s Model Overview: The 8 steps are: 1) Create urgency, 2) Build a coalition, 3) Form a vision, 4) Communicate the vision, 5) Empower action, 6) Generate short-term wins, 7) Consolidate gains, 8) Anchor changes. Each builds momentum, but one specifically counters skepticism with tangible results.
•Option A: Building and maintaining a guiding coalition – Step 2 forms a committed group to lead change. It’s foundational but focuses on team-building, not proving success to doubters. For example, assembling influencers doesn’t show results yet.
•Option B: Creating a sense of urgency around a single big opportunity – Step 1 motivates action by highlighting needs (e.g., “We’ll lose customers without this”). It generates buy-in but lacks tangible achievements to sway skeptics.
•Option C: Accelerating movement towards the vision – This aligns with Step 7 (consolidating gains), pushing progress. While it builds on wins, it’s about sustaining momentum, not the initial demonstration to doubters.
•Option D: Celebrating visible, significant short-term wins – Step 6 and the correct answer. Kotter emphasizes that early, visible successes (e.g., a pilot project cutting costs) prove the vision’s viability, silencing critics. The APMG framework notes this counters resistance by showing “it works.” For instance, a new process reducing complaints by 20% in a month can shift doubters’ views.
•Why D Fits: Doubters need evidence, not promises. Celebrating wins provides that proof, reinforcing belief and momentum, as Kotter and APMG stress.
[Reference: APMG Change Management Foundation, Chapter 2 – Change and the Organization, Kotter’s 8-Step Process section., ________________________________________]
