The Institutional Change Process: Lessons Learned Along the Way

Publication Date: January 1999

Publisher: Jewish Communal Service Association of North America

Author(s): Wayne L. Feinstein

Research Area: Social conditions

Keywords: Professionalism; Jewish Organizations; Management

Type: Report

Coverage: United States

Abstract:

A strategic plan is not worth the paper it is printed on unless its underlying vision is embedded in the organization's culture. The most essential element of organizational change is the alignment of all relevant stakeholders to the new direction. Four steps taken by the San Francisco federation—updating the executive's leadership style, increasing staff involvement in achieving organizational plans, helping the board understand the scope of the change, and strengthening the agency-federation relationship—are critical to achieving momentum, the successful implementation of a vision for change. Commitment, persistence, and enthusiasm for change by the leadership are key.