GitLab Inc

  1. select one of the communication components the organization would have distributed due to the change and write the communication in a Word document.
  2. analyze any media, news, or other communications that explain the change in the organization and explain how the company handled communicating the change to its stakeholders.
    An essential part of any change project is how the change is communicated to the organization, the change agents, the line workers, the customers, and the public. Along with media relations issues, communication change (especially in a publicly traded company) can involve multiple legal and regulatory aspects as well as personnel and management concerns. Perhaps the most challenging part of handling Kotter’s “establish a sense of urgency” is that too many inexperienced or immature change agents read this to mean “panic the troops.” Never do this!
    Here's what to do:
  3. Write an analysis of the communication your company used to communicate the organizational change.
    o Research and analyze any media, news, or other communications that provide details on the change that occurred in the organization.
    o Explain how the change was communicated to its stakeholders and the information shared in the communication you researched.
    o Discuss whether the communication effectively addressed the change to its intended audience (refer to the Chapter 7 reading).
  4. Create an original communication sample your organization could have distributed related to the change. Do not re-create a communication previously used by an organization.
    o Write the communication in a Word document (either the text or the script if the communication would have been oral). You may select to complete an interoffice memo, press release, employee or customer newsletter, or a corporate email update.
    o Use your creativity to communicate the message. The form of communication you use should be based on the appropriateness of the message. You will be graded on how well your communication relates to the audience and stakeholder group to which it is intended.

Full Answer Section

      This restructuring will involve [outline specific changes, such as department reorganization, layoffs, and remote work policies]. We understand that this news may be unsettling, and we want to assure you that our top priority is to support our employees throughout this transition. [Provide details about support resources, such as outplacement services, counseling, and internal job postings.] We believe that these changes are necessary for InnovateX to remain competitive in today's rapidly evolving market. We are confident that by working together, we can emerge from this transition stronger than ever. Thank you for your understanding and dedication. Sincerely, [Your Name] [Your Title] InnovateX Task 2: Media Analysis Example: A real-world case study: Meta Platforms (formerly Facebook) announcing significant layoffs in 2022. Media Analysis:
  • Communication Channels: Meta used various channels to communicate the layoffs, including official press releases, CEO Mark Zuckerberg's public statements, and internal memos.
  • Message: The company emphasized the need for cost-cutting measures and a focus on long-term growth.
  • Tone: The tone was generally measured and professional, acknowledging the impact on employees while highlighting the strategic reasons for the layoffs.
  • Stakeholder Engagement: Meta faced criticism for the way the layoffs were handled, with some employees feeling blindsided. However, the company did provide severance packages and outplacement services to affected employees.
Overall Assessment: While Meta's communication efforts were generally well-executed, the layoffs still caused significant disruption and negative sentiment among employees. The company could have improved its communication by providing more advance notice and greater transparency about the reasons for the layoffs. Conclusion: Effective communication is crucial during organizational change. By carefully considering the audience, message, tone, and channel, companies can mitigate negative impacts and foster a sense of understanding and support among stakeholders.  

Sample Answer

      Key considerations:
  • Audience: Who is the communication intended for? (e.g., employees, customers, investors)
  • Message: What is the key message or goal of the communication?
  • Tone: What is the appropriate tone (e.g., formal, informal, urgent)?
  • Channel: What is the best way to deliver the message (e.g., email, memo, public announcement)?
Task 1: Original Communication Scenario: A fictional tech company, "InnovateX," is undergoing a major restructuring to become more agile and competitive. The change involves layoffs, reorganization of departments, and a shift towards a more remote work culture. Communication: Internal Memo Subject: Important Update: InnovateX Restructuring Dear Team, We are writing to inform you about significant changes taking place at InnovateX as part of our ongoing commitment to innovation and growth. After careful consideration, we have made the difficult decision to restructure our organization to better align with our strategic goals.