Force Field Analysis
Force Field Analysis is a useful technique for looking at all the forces
for and against a decision. In effect, it is a specialized method of
weighing pros and cons. It identifies force and factors, both restraining
and driving, the effects on the solution of an issue or problem so that
the positive can be reinforced while the negative can be reduced or
eliminated.
By carrying out the analysis you can plan to strengthen the forces
supporting a decision, and reduce the impact of opposition to it.
How Should You Use the Tool?
To carry out a force field analysis, follow these steps:
- List all forces for change in one column, and all forces against
change in another column.
- Assign a score to each force, from 1 (weak) to 5 (strong).
- Draw a diagram showing the forces for and against change. Show the
size of each force as a number next to it.
For example, imagine that you are a manager deciding whether to install
new manufacturing equipment in your factory. You might draw up a force
field analysis as shown in Viewgraph
1.
Once you have carried out an analysis, you can decide whether your
project is viable. In the given example, you might initially question
whether it is worth going ahead with the plan.
When you have already decided to carry out a project, Force Field Analysis
can help you to work out how to improve the probability of its success.
Here you have two (2) choices:
- to reduce the strength of the forces opposing a project, or
- to increase the forces pushing a project.
Often, the most reasonable solution is the first. Trying to force change
may cause its own problems. People can be uncooperative if change is
forced on them.
If you had to implement the project in the given example, the analysis
might suggest a number of changes to the initial plan:
- By the training staff (increase cost by 1), you could eliminate
fear of technology (reduce fear by 2).
- It would be useful to show the staff that change is necessary for
business survival (new force in favor, +2).
- The staff could be shown that new machines would introduce variety
and arouse new interest in their jobs (new force, +1).
- Wages could be raised to reflect new productivity (cost +1, loss
of overtime -2).
- Slightly different machines with filters to eliminate pollution
could be installed (environmental impact -1).
These changes would swing the balance from 11:10 (against the plan),
to 8:13 (in favor of the plan).
Key Points
Force Field Analysis is a useful technique for looking at all the
forces for and against a plan. It helps you to weigh the importance
of these factors and decide whether a plan is worth implementing.
Source:
http://www.mindtools.com/pages/article/newTED_06.htm
http://www.isixsigma.com/dictionary/Force_Field_Analysis-481.htm
