😮‍💨 “Sigh, another digital transformation project. Whose KPI am I contributing to this time?”

If this is how employees feel about change, the issue is not the change itself but how it is managed.

A story we’ve seen too often when a company implemented a new system to improve efficiency. The project team celebrated a successful launch. But six months later, employees were still using their old spreadsheets. Productivity had not improved, and frustration was growing. The change never took hold.

What went wrong?

🚨 Employees Were Not Involved Early‍

People resist change when they do not understand how it benefits them. Without proper engagement, a new system feels like extra work rather than a helpful tool.

🚨 No Change Leaders, Just Change Announcers

Announcements were made, but leaders were not actively involved. Without visible drivers and champions walking the talk, employees don’t feel the need to change and may even feel demotivated.

🚨 Training Was The Only Support Provided

The only intervention provided to help employees transition was a one time, generic training session for everyone.

🚨 There Was No Reinforcement

After the initial rollout, employees gradually returned to old habits. Without ongoing monitoring, reminders, communications and support, the change doesn’t last.

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What Works Instead?

Sustainable change is about people, not just processes. A structured approach ensures that change is:

✅ Understood – Employees see the bigger picture, understand how it affects them and recognise that the change benefits them in the long run

✅ Supported – Leaders actively drive and champion the change, creating a safe environment for transition

✅ Adopted – A variety of interventions address different employees’ needs

✅ Sustained – Continuous monitoring and reinforcement to keep up the momentum and prevent setbacks

As a Qualified Education Provider accredited by the Association of Change Management Professionals (ACMP), HumanCap helps organisations build the skills needed to lead and manage change successfully. Once you join our Change Management Certification Programme (CMCP) training programme, you’ll get to learn HumanCap’s patented Change Management framework which has benefitted over 40 clients. Send us your training request today at insan@humancap.com.my.

PS: HumanCap trainings are HRDC levy-claimable!