Assessment Description
Discuss instances in which confidentiality measures apply during change management communication. Would the confidentiality apply to all stakeholders? Why or why not? Provide a specific example.
Organization Development and Change
Cumming, T. G., & Worley, C. G. (2015). Organization development and change (10th ed.). Boston, MA: Cengage Learning. ISBN-13: 9788131531679.
Expert Solution Preview
Confidentiality measures are crucial during change management communication in order to ensure confidentiality of sensitive information and maintain trust among stakeholders. However, the application of confidentiality measures may vary depending on the specific circumstances and the stakeholders involved.
In most cases, confidentiality measures should be maintained when communicating about sensitive aspects of the change management process. For example, if an organization is undergoing a restructuring that may result in job losses, it is essential to maintain confidentiality when discussing individual employees’ roles and the potential impact on their employment status. Cautious handling of such information can prevent unnecessary anxiety and maintain the overall trust of the employees involved.
Confidentiality measures would not necessarily apply to all stakeholders in every situation. The application of confidentiality needs to be carefully considered and balanced against the need for transparency and open communication during the change management process. Some stakeholders, such as top-level executives, may need to be aware of more detailed and sensitive information in order to make informed decisions. In such cases, the level of confidentiality needs to be adjusted accordingly.
For example, when a healthcare organization is implementing a new electronic medical records system, the IT department may need access to confidential information, such as patient data, in order to configure and troubleshoot the system effectively. In this case, confidentiality measures would apply to the IT department, as they need access to sensitive data, but may not apply to all stakeholders involved in the change management process.
In summary, confidentiality measures are vital during change management communication, particularly when sensitive information is involved. However, the application of these measures may vary depending on the specific circumstances and the stakeholders involved, and the need for transparency and open communication should also be considered in order to foster trust and a smooth change management process.
