Leaders are often in the position of bringing about change. In the study of organizations and leadership, change is a critical topic. Change does not happen naturally in most organizations, it is a leader-led process. This course takes two perspectives. The first is that organizations are made up of processes. Every day, these processes run and regenerate themselves. Examining them for ways to improve can lead to redesign and ultimately gains in cost saving, customer satisfaction, and improved morale. The second perspective is that a metaphorical force field called culture organizes and shapes organizations. We breathe the air of culture in our work lives each day. Analyzing culture enables us to consider its impact on organizational effectiveness and ability to reach goals.

The course will weave together these four critical elements in change – organizational culture, leadership, communication and internal processes.

Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

• Describe the macro environment’s impact on leaders and organizations.
• Describe a variety of change management theories and their application in practice.
• Assess the intersections between leadership, organizational processes, organizational culture, communication and change.
• Develop appropriate recommendations for leading and communicating change.
• Interpret how organizational culture and change intersect.
• Assess a leader’s role in leading, shaping, and changing organizational culture.
• Evaluate and assess different change models and their effectiveness.