Kotter’s stage 7 and 8
Apple Inc. was the company I chose for my evaluation. Apple Inc. designs and develops electronic consumer products, online services, and software. Apple Inc. is known for its innovative products, quality design and satisfied customers. The company has successfully implemented Kotter’s change management model in various initiatives over the years, including the introduction of the iPod, iPhone, and iPad.
Stage 7 of Kotter’s change management model involves consolidating gains and producing more change. It is important to ensure that all the benefits of the earlier stages can be sustained and even increased. Kotter (1996) says consolidating progress involves building on successes, producing short-term gains, and anchoring a new approach to prevent relapse. To produce more change, you need to build on the momentum and accelerate progress.
Apple Inc. has utilized Stage 7 of Kotter’s model in several ways. The company communicates its success to stakeholders such as shareholders, employees, and customers. For example, in the introduction of the iPhone in 2007, Apple Inc. emphasized the product’s revolutionary design, functionality, and user experience. The company’s marketing campaigns highlighted the benefits of the iPhone, such as the touch screen interface, app store, and mobile internet connectivity. Apple Inc. generated excitement by communicating its successes. This led to a high level of demand for the iPhone and market success.
Apple Inc. is also good at generating quick wins. The company’s approach to product development involves releasing products in phases, starting with a basic version and gradually introducing new features and improvements over time. Apple Inc. is able to achieve short-term success by releasing upgrades or new products that are immediately beneficial to its customers. Apple Inc. launched a version of its iPad that was primarily functional, allowing web browsing and email. Over time, the company introduced new features, such as front and back cameras, improved processors, and support for Apple Pencil, generating short-term wins for customers and reinforcing the product’s value proposition.
Apple Inc., a thirdly company has implemented new methods within its organization in order to avoid regress. The company’s culture is centered on innovation, design, and user experience, which is reflected in its organizational structure, processes, and practices. For example, the company has a dedicated design team that is responsible for developing and refining the company’s product design language, ensuring consistency and quality across all product lines. Additionally, the company’s software development processes are centered on user experience, with a focus on simplicity, ease of use, and functionality. Apple Inc. makes sure that its changes are long lasting and sustainable by integrating new methods within their organization.
Stage 8 of Kotter’s change management model involves anchoring new approaches in the culture. This stage is crucial in ensuring that the changes become a part of the organization’s culture, values, and practices. Kotter (1996) states that anchoring new methods involves creating a culture change, developing leadership, and continuing education.
Apple Inc. has utilized Stage 8 of Kotter’s model in various ways. The company created a brand new culture, which values design, innovation and customer satisfaction. The company’s organizational structure is designed to foster innovation, with cross-functional teams working together to develop new products and features. Additionally, the company’s design philosophy is centered on simplicity, elegance, and functionality, which is reflected in all aspects of the company’s products and services.
Apple Inc. also invests in the development of leaders to make sure that new methods are maintained over time. Apple Inc. has developed a program for leadership development that aims to recognize and develop leaders.