SELL IT SAP UPGRADE IMPLEMENTATION - SHOULD CHANGE MANAGEMENT BE AS EXTENSIVE AS THE EFFECT OF THE CHANGE?

Abstract

The objective of this master’s thesis was to consider whether the energy invested in change management should be as extensive as the effect of the change. There are many factors and considerations that must be taken into account prior to the selection of the solution method. This thesis discussed the most important factors that help determine the solution methodology and the degree of change management activities needed. In addition, the means to classify and measure the change are examined. The case study method was used to investigate the central question of this thesis. The case study material was based on information from a large technical change in the critical application of the UPM-Kymmene Oyj (UPM) business that took place during 2009 – 2010. The case study used information from several surveys that were executed among the stakeholders. In addition, smaller groups were interviewed to evaluate the extent of the need for change management in the project. The results of the thesis were also based on observations made during the project, UPM's change management material, and experiences and material received from the Change Expert training by Changefirst Ltd. The findings of this thesis indicated that the amount and extent of change management should be scaled to the whole change process from the current situation to the future stage instead of only focusing on the extent of the final effect of change. The need for change management should never be underestimated, and it should be carefully investigated. Culture is an essential component of change, and the level of cultural cohesion is one of the main factors affecting the extent of the need of change management.