Introduction

          Change is inevitable and can be scary. Though, with an open mind and supported by a team of leaders that embody strong communication skills and the proper use of technology, change doesn’t have to be a challenge instead it can lead to positive results. Effectual comminution and digital literacy skills are equally important in both personal and professional environments. The process in which information is shared throughout an organization can be very consequential to the overall success of the organization, especially throughout times of change. In support of the employees, leaders within the organization can improve communication through optimizing technological resources, initiating connections among teams, and facilitating the transfer of information by the networking among workgroups (Stroh & Jaatinen, 2001).  As a leader of change, a PowerPoint presentation was designed to communicate a ‘small win’ to the stakeholders as part of the change strategy for improving communication within the organization. The redesigned PowerPoint presentation is an example demonstrating the ability to make informed decisions regarding the use of technology in support of learning and leadership.

Description of Methods

              An important element of a change strategy includes performing an analysis among the stakeholders, as well as assessing the readiness level for all of those involved, including the leader themselves. This process brings insight on how to effectively approach the various groups and stakeholders and minimize opposition. In recognizing who stands to gain or lose from the proposed change, as well as shared interests’ assists in creating a successful strategy of change (Spiro, 2011). Employing technology resources, analysis of the organization’s readiness can be conducted, collected, and analyzed efficiently in support of the planning process. It is stated that organizations often skip the step to conduct internal analysis and employ quick-fixes when instigating change, which leads to unsuccessful outcomes Pellettiere, 2006).  Therefore, utilizing tools within Google such as Google Forms to create surveys, Google Sheets to collect, track, and analyze data, Google Calendar to easily share schedules and set meetings, and GoogleDocs allows for open communication and the sharing of information.

Consistently evaluating participant’s level of readiness will provide me with a realistic perception of the participants’ current state, which will offer awareness into any potential resistance (Smollan, 2011). As resistance is inevitable and can be part of human nature, a leader of change can manage resistance through planning and preparation. Proceeding in a proactive manner can help to gain clear perspectives of the participants’ reservations, and change can be managed effectively, ready for whatever resistance may be brought forth.  Resistance doesn’t have to derail a well-prepared strategy of change when approached with support, knowledge, and open communication.  In an effort to maintain open communication and optimism towards the change strategy, a meeting that includes a PowerPoint presentation sharing the ‘small wins’ already experienced is helping with employees within the organization.

                   Before attending the presentation, participants will log onto the employee portal, complete a short survey and have access to watch a selection of TedTalks relevant to the meeting’s topic. The talks aim to provide insight on purpose, engage critical thinking, and ignite a common language among all. Also, the goal of the Tedtalks is to act as a pre-training exercise and support the participant’s cognitive processing and avoid overload (Clark & Mayer, 2011).  The intent is for the learner to be introduced to the main concepts before the presentation to help the learner mitigate through new topics. The pre-training exercise will be beneficial for the employees as it will allow a preview of any information that may be new and requiring time for processing.

            The Coherence Principle was applied in the redesign process to reduce extraneous processing. Clark and Mayer (2011) suggest that minimalism is often the best approach and may be one of the most valuable principles to adhere to for creating JIT training/learning solutions. The Coherence Principle is relevant in the minimizing extraneous processing as it helps in ensuring that any unnecessary and extra material will not detour the learning potential (Clark & Mayer, 2011). This will help to facilitate an optimal learning experience and minimize possible disruptions that could disturb the learner’s cognitive ability to process relevant knowledge pertinent to the learning objective.