Change management is the process of guiding organizational change from start to finish, including planning, implementing, and solidifying changes in an organization. It is the application of a structured process and set of tools for leading the people side of change to achieve a desired outcome. Change management is both a process and a competency, and it focuses on how to help people engage, adopt and use a change in their day-to-day work. The change management process involves several steps, which may vary depending on the type of change being implemented. Here are some common steps of the change management process:

• Determine the reason for the change.
• Set specific goals for the change.
• Establish key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure the success of the change.
• Identify stakeholders who will be impacted by the change.
• Develop a communication plan to keep stakeholders informed.
• Create a plan for training and supporting stakeholders through the change.
• Implement the change.
• Monitor and evaluate the change to ensure it is successful.

Change management is important because it helps organizations successfully support employees, identify steps, and monitor systems after implementation. It enables practitioners within organizations to leverage and scale the change management activities that help impacted individuals and groups move through their transitions. By building a change management plan, organizations can make smoother transitions during times of change and have more control over the entire process.