As mentioned, during Module 1 and reinforced throughout HRM460, our world continues to change and evolve. HR professionals, organizational employees, leaders, directors, etc. need to understand how internal and external organizational factors impact change initiatives. Furthermore, the impact of change processes, to respond to the ever-changing world around us, need to be considered, especially in terms of how changes impact individuals, teams, and organizations.
Scenario
In February of 2020, a large online retailer began to experience the impact of COVID-19. Many employees were sick, could not come into the office due to exposure, were experiencing childcare issues, etc. While warehouse staff have remained onsite, Retailer ABC has decided that the organization’s processes need to change.
Since COVID-19, Retailer ABC has decided to shut its corporate office locations. While the warehouse/shipping/distribution centers will still remain open, all office personnel are required to work from home for the indefinite future. As a Director of Human Resources, for the organization, you have been tasked to present information about the following:
Details about how COVID-19 has impacted retail businesses/the retail industry.
An explanation of what organizational changes (e.g., policies and procedures, technological considerations, etc.) need to be considered and implemented to accommodate this new work from home culture.
Provide details about change processes that can be used to successfully carry out these organizational changes.
A detailed explanation of how organizational changes might impact individuals and teams.
An explanation of the roles and responsibilities leadership team members play in the successful implementation of this change initiative.
Recommendations about what types of metrics can be utilized to determine if the change initiative was successful.
