Planning for successful transformation

In organisations, there’s often a tendency to use simple solutions to address complex problems. A typical example might be the introduction of a new performance review process when the issue is really about culture and how leaders and managers engage with their people around high performance.

This is where organisation analysis becomes a valuable tool. It can be applied to businesses and organisations of all sizes and across sectors and it involves taking a close look at different aspects of the organisation to identify its strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement. Analysing survey and interview data and information collected through observation, key issues and options for change can be identified. Well-validated platforms such as the Organisation Transitions Inventory, Competing Values Framework, and the Leadership Climate Indicator have also been used successfully with clients.

“We engaged Andy Harmer Consulting in the construction of our force leadership and development offer. Andy provides a wonderful blend of experience from business, military and academia, and was easy to work with. The style with our people was relaxed, engaging and conversational, helping us to define the leadership traits in our staff we wanted to develop in the fast pace of modern 21^st century policing.”

Paul Anderson, Chief Constable, Humberside Police

A comprehensive organisation analysis includes several key areas, each requiring a specific approach:

• Structure: How the organisation’s structure influences performance typically involves reviewing the current hierarchy, the roles and responsibilities of employees, and the overall flow of information, with the aim of improving the organisation’s effectiveness
• Culture: The values, beliefs, and attitudes held within the organisation towards its employees and customers. Looking at the company's mission statement, employee satisfaction surveys, and customer feedback can identify areas where cultural change will promote a more productive, positive, and inclusive work environment
• Executive leadership: The effectiveness of the executive leadership team is essential to the organisation’s success, so reviewing the leadership style, decision-making processes, and communication strategies of key executives is vital for identifying areas where the leadership team can improve their collective performance. Support in this area could include a focus on executive team alignment, strategic leadership, role modelling and developing better communication strategies
• Communication: Reviewing information flows within the organisation will identify areas where communication can be improved, such as introducing new communication tools or developing better communication protocols
• Employee performance: Improving productivity and job satisfaction, addressing areas where employees need more development or support or considering improvements to performance management systems can make a significant positive impact

Organisation analysis is a crucial tool for businesses and other organisations to assess their structure, operations, processes and culture. By conducting a well-designed analysis of the organisation, it is possible to identify key areas for improvement and develop highly relevant strategies to enhance the overall effectiveness and efficiency of the organisation.

With over 25 years of experience across sectors and businesses, I can help you to design and implement the most appropriate approach to organisation analysis, whether that be using an off the shelf tool, a bespoke analysis or an integrated approach. Then you can put your energy and resources into focussed, well-designed solutions that will deliver the greatest benefits. 

If you’d like to explore how organisation analysis can support your business, let’s talk.