The OD cycle is a tool that can be used within businesses to help support the design and development of change projects, whether that be cultural, behavioural and or developmental this tool is a method that explores each phase of a change project, making certain key elements are considered and implemented, ensuring the project is sustainable.
Companies such as Volvo and Lego have used this tool for various initiatives they have wanted to implement. Volvo implemented a new workflow system and Lego brought in a sustainability initiative.
No matter the project, the OD cycle is an essential method businesses should know about and should be using in change work.
What is the OD cycle?
The 5 phases of the cycle:
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Contracting – This is the initial stage of starting an initiative when it is recognised that there is a need for change or improvement by the business. Meetings will begin to establish the working relationship, explore the current obstacles and opportunities as well as scoping out the project expectations and goals.
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Diagnosis – This is the fact finding phase, inquiring and challenge perceptions across the business and identifying patterns and themes that support or dispute the initial change request. Various data is gathered, analysed and reviewed.
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Feedback – Exploring the data and information collected with the business. This phase is to communicate to key stakeholders, the highlights and important insights to be able to endorse the initiative.
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Solution – This phase includes the stages of designing, developing and implementing development solutions to improve, enhance or close the gap current situation or problem. Planned interventions to take place with the view of seeing what works and what does not to be able to adapt to the needs of the business and success of the interventions.
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Evaluation – Determining and collecting information to see if the solutions are meeting the expectations and goals of the initiative. This phase will provide further context that may continually support the project or highlight the need for more development or change.
The role of OD Consultant in the cycle:
OD consultants support with areas such as:
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strategic change management implementation
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Programme design and delivery for cultural improvement
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People skills development to support staff engagement
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Team building facilitation to build relationships and collaboration
Contact us today if you and your business are working on your development projects and would like an independent, professionally objective review.
