Change agents (catalyst)
In every large-scale planned change program some person or group is
usually designated to lead change and these are called change agents. The
change agent, then becomes the change leader, the person leading or
guiding the process of change in an organisation. These change agents can
be divided into two, internal and external agents. Internal agents are already
members of the organisation. They may be either be the CEO, managing
director or senior manager of the organisation who have the leadership
skills, will take the lead for implementing change and can utilize symbolic
activities to support change process. However, change agents are not
necessary top managers but they can be any individuals, groups that
initiate and facilitate change process. .
Change agents may also come from outside sources such as external
consultants who are change management experts that are hired to aid
managers in tackling with organisational. The external consultant is
someone not previously associated with the client system.
Advantages of using internal consultants
•Internal consultants have a deep understanding about their
organisation, its system and people.
•They are likely to be readily available: they are there, ready and able
to take on the job whenever evaluation is wanted
•Easy access to information
•Develops and keeps expertise and resources internal
•Creates and maintains norm of organization renewal from within
•Provides higher security and confidentiality
