Managing change

Abstract

There is a school of thought in so far as machinery is concerned that if it is working well then leave it alone. Do not stop it and take it to pieces to see what is going wrong or what might soon need replacing. “If it ain′t broke, don′t fix it!” The argument runs that the replacement of parts before it is necessary only places strains on other components so that there is an enhanced risk of breakdown. The question is, should the same principle apply in work situations? The analogy between a mechanical unit and work is valid in that there can be a substantial number of parts in the unit which all fit together so that the total “system” works to produce what is required. In the work situation the parts are different functions of the firm, like the supply system for raw material; adequate and trained staff; an accounts section to invoice the customer and a forwarding department to get the finished article to the customer. These all have to be integrated so that the work is completed and, in whatever form, put on sale.

Citation

Muir, J. (1995), "Managing change", Work Study, Vol. 44 No. 2, pp. 16-18. https://doi.org/10.1108/00438029510082567