Over the years of consulting, specifically in a South African business environment, we have learned from our clients that it is easier to understand pictures. Our model, presented in the figure below, makes a complex profession very simple.
This model represents our version of the value chain of Organisational Development. It starts with a contextual focus of business, namely an investigation of the business stakeholders and their expectations. Businesses are usually driven by groupings of different stakeholders, where the number and nature of their expectations will vary depending on the complexity of the business. The core value chain of OD starts where these expectations are addressed, together with other business drivers in the form of a business strategy, addressing the strategic intent, focus areas, as well as key business measures. Once the strategy has been developed, it needs to be executed via the organisational entity. In this regard, business processes are developed to support the execution of business strategy.
The next element in the model, addresses the detailed definition of work outputs within these business processes. Role profiles are the core socio-technical element that supports the alignment of individuals to their roles. In order to ensure that the requisite competencies are existence in the organisation, there is also a focus on a competency element.
The model is supported by enablers that support the execution of the core value chain, as well as governance elements that measure and control the implementation of the value chain. Lastly, the model presents an impact assessment focus to ensure continuous alignment with changing business strategies, as well as environmental and stakeholder demands.
We have found that this model can be applied, together with an understanding and appreciation of work complexity, to the simplest organisational development intervention, as well as the most complex business transformation exercises.
I have interviewed a couple of our senior consultants, that utilises this model on a daily basis with senior clients in different industries, and they are all of the opinion that it is an excellent heuristic tool to guide both themselves, as well as their clients through any organisational change project.