Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe) Program Consultant Practice Test

What is the last step in Kotter's eight-step model for implementing successful change?

1. Communicate the vision

2. Measure progress

3. Anchor new approaches in the culture

4. Celebrate short-term wins

The correct answer is: Anchor new approaches in the culture

The last step in Kotter's eight-step model for implementing successful change is to anchor new approaches in the culture. This step is critical because it ensures that the changes made are not temporary but are integrated into the organization’s culture and practices. By anchoring the new behaviors, processes, or attitudes in the organization, they become part of the standard operating procedures. This cultural integration helps to sustain the change over the long term, making it less likely for the organization to revert back to old ways. It involves reinforcing the change through role modeling by leaders, adjusting organizational systems and structures to support the new behavior, and succeeding in making employees understand the value of the change. This anchoring process is essential to prevent the new approaches from fading away as new challenges surface or as initial enthusiasm diminishes. Properly embedding these changes into the culture aids in building resilience and flexibility within the organization for future changes as well.