How communication aids innovation: Taking the fear out of change

Abstract

Purpose

Reviews the latest management developments across the globe and pinpoints practical implications from cutting‐edge research and case studies.

Design/methodology/approach

This briefing is prepared by an independent writer who adds their own impartial comments and places the articles in context.

Findings

In today's fiercely competitive business world, growth through radical transformation is often the best route towards survival and prosperity. Indeed, it can even be said that companies not prepared to re‐invent themselves run the real risk of being left behind. But implementing change should not really pose a serious problem. After all, doesn't the old saying remind us that a change is as good as a rest? If only it were that simple. True, many do welcome change with open arms. Transformational innovation provides excitement for such people and they will invariably adopt a positive attitude towards the new challenges that lay ahead. Equally, however, there are always many others who frown upon anything that threatens the status quo. In this camp, change denotes threat rather than opportunity. The difficulty facing management, therefore, is how to transform their organization while keeping conflict and stress to a minimum.

Practical implications

Provides strategic insights and practical thinking that have influenced some of the world's leading organizations.

Originality/value

The briefing saves busy executives and researchers hours of reading time by selecting only the very best, most pertinent information and presenting it in a condensed and easy‐to‐digest format.

Citation

(2006), "How communication aids innovation: Taking the fear out of change", Strategic Direction, Vol. 22 No. 4, pp. 17-19. https://doi.org/10.1108/02580540610657272