British Airways (BA) is a leading global airline that has undergone significant changes in recent years in order to remain competitive in the marketplace. This case study will examine the change management strategies employed by BA and evaluate their effectiveness in implementing organizational change.
One major change that BA implemented was the decision to outsource its IT functions to a third-party provider. This was done in order to reduce costs and increase efficiency, as the company believed that an external provider would be better equipped to handle the complex and constantly evolving world of technology. However, this change was not without its challenges. The transition to a new IT provider was difficult and caused significant disruptions to the business, leading to customer complaints and a decline in service quality.
To address these issues, BA implemented a number of change management strategies. Firstly, the company ensured that all employees were properly trained on the new systems and processes. This included providing ongoing support and resources to help employees adapt to the changes. In addition, BA communicated clearly with its customers about the changes, including any disruptions or delays that may have occurred as a result of the transition.
Another major change that BA implemented was the decision to merge with Iberia, a Spanish airline. This was done in order to create a more competitive and financially stable company that could better withstand the challenges of the global aviation industry. The merger required significant changes to be made to the organizational structure, culture, and processes of both companies.
To manage this process, BA adopted a number of change management strategies. These included involving employees in the decision-making process, providing clear communication about the reasons for the merger and the benefits it would bring, and offering training and support to employees to help them adapt to the new organizational structure.
Overall, it is clear that BA has employed a number of effective change management strategies in order to successfully implement organizational change. By training employees, communicating clearly with stakeholders, and involving employees in the decision-making process, the company has been able to smoothly transition through significant changes and maintain its position as a leader in the global aviation industry.
