Six Reasons Change Management Plans Are Essential for Jails

By: Joli Shumpert, equivant Corrections’ Implementation Specialist

Change is inevitable in the field of corrections. Whether it comes in the form of shifts in political dynamics, the introduction of innovative technologies, or organizational restructuring, facilities must adapt to remain current. However, change is often met with resistance from employees and leadership alike. Comprehensive, customized change management strategies can help navigate this initial resistance and lead facilities to organizational success.

What is Change Management?

Change management is a systematic approach to transitioning individuals, teams, and organizations from a current state to a desired future state. It involves planning, implementing, and guiding change to minimize resistance and maximize engagement and success. This process focuses on both the technical and human aspects of change, ensuring that new initiatives, processes, or technologies are adopted and sustained effectively. The goal is to ensure that changes are implemented smoothly, with minimal disruption, and that all stakeholders are on board.

Why is a Change Management Plan Important?

1. Minimizes Resistance to Change
   Resistance to change is one of the biggest obstacles facilities face during transitions. Proper training helps staff understand the reasons behind the change, how it will benefit them, and what their role will be during and after the transition. This understanding reduces fear and uncertainty, leading to greater acceptance and cooperation.
2. Improves Communication
   Effective communication is at the heart of successful change management. A change management plan incorporates coaching for leaders on how to communicate changes clearly and consistently, ensuring that all employees are informed and engaged. This reduces misinformation and helps build trust within the facility.
3. Enhances Leadership Capabilities
   Change management plans also focus on developing leadership skills. Leaders learn how to guide their teams through change, manage emotions, and maintain productivity. This is crucial for keeping the facility aligned with its goals during periods of transition.
4. Increases Adaptability and Agility
   Facilities that invest in change management strategies are better equipped to adapt to new challenges and opportunities. Employees become more flexible and open, leading to a more responsive facility that can quickly adapt to shifts during the current change and beyond.
5. Boosts Employee Morale and Engagement
   When employees feel supported and involved in the change process, their morale and engagement increase. A customized change management plan helps create a positive environment where employees feel valued and empowered to contribute to the facility’s success.
6. Ensures Long-Term Success
   Change is not a one-time event; it’s an ongoing process. Change management plans create a procedural roadmap, ensuring that employees and leaders have the tools they need to manage future transitions effectively.

How equivant Corrections’ Change Management Service Works:

• On-Site Strategy Development
  Our team of former practitioners will spend three days at your facility, collaborating with senior staff to create a customized, comprehensive change management strategy tailored to your facility’s unique needs.
• Educational Instruction
  We provide a full day of educational training on the ADKAR (Awareness, Desire, Knowledge, Ability, Reinforcement) proven change management model, equipping your team with the knowledge and tools needed to drive successful change.
• Executive Coaching
  Our experts coach executive staff on effective strategies to build momentum and foster buy-in across all levels of the organization, helping to overcome resistance and facilitate smooth transitions.
• Resistance Management
  We identify sources of resistance early on and provide actionable tools to address and minimize pushback, ensuring smoother implementation of new initiatives.
• Effective Communication Planning
  We help develop clear communication plans to keep all staff informed, aligned, and supportive of the changes being implemented, reducing confusion and resistance.
• Risk Mitigation
  By understanding your facility’s unique dynamics, we help minimize operational risks during the transition, ensuring the safety and efficiency of daily operations.
• Implementation Guidance and Ongoing Support
  We guide your staff through the change implementation plan and provide four, 1-hour weekly check-in calls post-visit to assess progress and address challenges.

Change is challenging, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With equivant Corrections’ Change Management service, your facility can build the adaptability needed for success—today and in the future.

For more information or to begin crafting your change management strategy, reach out to our team today. Or, read more about how this service can benefit your facility.