What is the purpose of contracting with those involved in change?

The purpose of contracting with those involved in change focuses on clarifying the roles of change agents. Contracting serves as a foundational step in the change management process, as it helps define expectations, responsibilities, and the scope of the change initiative for all parties involved. By doing so, it establishes a mutual understanding among stakeholders about their contributions and the dynamics of collaboration required to facilitate the change effectively.

Clarifying roles is particularly valuable because it creates accountability and ensures that everyone understands their part in the process. This can increase buy-in and minimize confusion, allowing for smoother transitions and more efficient implementation of changes.

In contrast, while establishing a timeline for implementation might seem relevant, it does not address the central aspect of defining roles and responsibilities during the change process. Reducing the need for feedback contradicts the essence of an effective change initiative, which often requires ongoing communication and feedback loops. Excluding stakeholders would be counterproductive to successful change efforts, as inclusion fosters support and reduces resistance. Therefore, focusing on clarifying the roles of change agents through contracting is fundamental to the success of any organizational change initiative.