Managing change isn't good enough

One lesson learned from past reengineering is that to be successful in the next decade, organizations will need to create and lead transformation, not just manage the process. Two critical aspects of transformation are that it is a process and that it requires leadership. The "five Cs" of transformation are imperative: create the vision, create the plan, communicate the vision and the plan, cultivate motivated and empowered stakeholders, and cement change in the organization's culture. Business skills, the ability to lead others, and the ability to forge and maintain relationships are needed for effective leadership. For successful transformation, businesses must avoid the mistakes made in the past decade, including too much complacency, too little and/or inappropriate communication, and underestimating the importance of vision and leadership to the transformation effort.