Why do organisational change programmes fail?

Abstract

Many organisations have found it difficult to implement organisational change successfully. This paper using a systematic and meta-analysis review of the literature published between 1980 and 2011 explored the major reasons for organisational change failure. Unsuccessful change programmes were attributed to insufficient education and training, employees’ apathy, inadequate management support, poor leadership, inappropriate organisational culture, inadequate resources, poor communication, inappropriate planning, insufficient customer focus, and lack of a monitoring and measurement system. Change-programme implementation and its impact depend on the ability of managers to adopt and adapt the change programme principles in their organisations. A well-designed, wisely adapted and well-implemented change programme helps managers achieve desired results. Identification of those factors that contribute to change success or failure enables change leaders to develop effective strategies for enhancing the chances of achieving desired outcomes.