• Agile Transformation

Your next level? Organizational change using Queen (2/2)

As described earlier in Part 1 of this blog; organizational change can also be tricky. But to make it more fun and, more importantly, more musical, I’d like to ask you to download this playlist on again. Because using some of Queen’s songs, we will go through all the phases of organizational change. And now that we’ve done the first 4 songs (read: steps), let’s keep going. Let’s go!

5. “One Vision” – Shared dream

Now we are being tested, for there is the dreaded first setback. Doubts strike: Is it really such a good idea? Is it a real improvement? Will we get people along or against it? The stakes are high. The most important question: Do we fall back to old systems or do we turn the resistance within the organization into positive energy?

In the four previous issues, we caught the quick wins and the first breakthroughs occurred. The visibility of new barriers also grew. These must be addressed in these phases. Old systems don’t just let themselves be replaced. That takes breakthroughs, courage and vision.

Now that the change is underway, and we have discussed all the doubts democratically, something beautiful is beginning to emerge: a shared vision. “One Vision” represents the moment when teams, departments and the organization as a whole have the same goals in mind. The result: teams truly work as one. With a clear focus. A strong drive. And collective understanding of the direction in which the organization is moving. The text “One man, one goal, one mission” speaks to the unity of the team with a vision. Transformed, no longer doubting, but a force to change the world.

6. “Don’t Stop Me Now” – Apotheosis

The climax of the journey is the moment of triumph, where the teams use their strengths and skills. “Don’t Stop Me Now” is the anthem of this phase. The song exudes joy, appropriate for this moment in organizational change, and symbolizes the sense of flow that comes when everything begins to fall into place.

Teams work together, plan iterations and achieve desired results. Energy is high and obstacles are resolved quickly and effectively. In organizations, you see teams being confident and a culture of experimentation and improvement emerging. The moment when the new way of working no longer feels “new,” but “natural.” “Cause I’m having a good time, having a good time” – the teams are no longer afraid or insecure, but in control and enjoying the power they gain from the journey.

7. “We Are the Champions” – Resurgence

Every successful organizational change deserves a moment of reflection. “We Are the Champions” is the perfect metaphor for the triumph of a team that has overcome difficult times and now looks back with pride. This means looking back on the Agile transformation and celebrating the successes achieved as a result.

Celebrating achieved goals and successes is an important part of the growth process. This issue highlights the importance of giving teams recognition after intensive change. Celebrating success motivates and inspires continued growth.

This song represents the lasting impact of the journey. The lyrics “I’ve paid my dues, time after time” remind us that the journey has not been without sacrifice, but the rewards are great.

8. “We Will Rock You” – Setting new standard

After celebrating the first successes, comes the final phase: embedding the Agile way of working as the new norm within the organization. “We Will Rock You” is the anthem that heralds the future. The new mindset and practices are now embedded in the culture of the organization, and everyone is working together to continue to make an impact. Agile is not a project that ends, but a continuous journey of growth, innovation and improvement.

“We will, we will rock you” is a call to the world to join in, to take action and to create change together. The organization has achieved its goal and is now inspiring others to walk its own path.

Conclusion: organizational change is a worthwhile journey

Organizational change is not easy, but with the right guidance and mindset, it is a journey that is more than worthwhile. Queen’s songs will help you understand and appreciate this journey to organizational change. Together we can overcome obstacles, find our vision and keep moving forward as true champions.

And, just as Queen sings: We will, we will… rock you!

At Scrum Academy, we will help you make this journey as smooth as possible, with clear guidance and practical tools that will enable you to make this transformation a successful rock show as well. Feel like spar with me to discuss your journey?