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The change management approach at BP Southern Africa Pty (Ltd) : a case study

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Date

2004

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Abstract

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the extent to which BP Southern Africa Pty (Ltd) adhered or differed to the theory and principles of Change Management. The study used a case study method to explore the key question of the approach using the six dimensions of change, i.e. the goals of the change; the leadership of change; the focus of the change; the process of change; The Reward System used in the Change Programme and The use of Consultants in the Change Program. The whole from birth of this initiative was looked at using the six dimensions of change to evaluate and answer the question of the approach that was used in managing the change at BP Southern Africa. The six dimensions of change are classified into the two main theories of change referred to here as Theory E and Theory o. Both these theories are discussed and a model arrived at in Chapter Two. Parallels are drawn with these theories in the analysis of evidence within the context of the six dimensions of change in later chapters of this research report. The exploratory nature of the research coupled with the theoretical framework of change management necessitated a qualitative research approach. The tool used being that of extensive interviews. The case outlines the process of change at BP Southern Africa Pty (Ltd) where information was gathered from different stake-holders in the change process thereby highlighting the range of benefits and limitations introduced by the change strategy. The summary of evidence for each construct is discussed and analysed where it soon emerged that there is an adherence to the theory and principles of change management. The research report concludes by drawing parallels between the process as done by BP Southern Africa Pty (Ltd) and the model drawn in the literature review. Lessons learnt from this change process are discussed in the concluding chapter with some suggestions for future restructurings at BP Southern Africa or any organisation wishing to embark on such an exercise.

Description

Thesis (MBA)-University of KwaZulu-Natal (Westville), 2004.

Keywords

Organizational change.

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