Life Today – Adaptation

We live in a world of constant change, some of which is taking place so quickly that we can hardly catch up. All too often, organisations spend a lot of time and effort dealing with change. Sometimes it is so exhausting that organisations just adopt what others are doing so as not to be left out of the race. Unfortunately, this is where the pit fall is.

While adoption gives one a reference model to look at, however, adoption of whole processes, practices and structures without considering the organisational type, environment, management, employees and resource availability is doomed for disaster. Employees and management have been known to feel at a loss after some time because of the lack of understanding of what they have adopted. It is even more frustrating when lots of money have been spent but nothing seems to be improving.

Having spent time in different organisations, I realise that many tend to forget that no two organisations are identical, and the situation is even more diverse if we are referring to organisations in different countries, manned by people of different cultures living in different environments.

Indeed, adaptation based on the in-situ conditions will be more appropriate. For example, an established restaurant wishing to establish on-line delivery for their offering must first install the appropriate and easy-to-use computer systems, complete with the right Apps to cater not just for orders but also for payments. They may also need to secure experienced food delivery partner (s). More importantly, their own staff must be familiarised with the changes in work processes. Even the chef in the kitchen must know how to use the computer. Language used must be easily understood. Finally, it is also good to study other on-line delivery food companies to appreciate the challenges involved.

If for example, you decide to expand your food overseas, you need to be sensitive to the local culture there. Your offering of beef burgers and steaks will not sell well in a predominantly Hindu environment in India. Neither can you secure Muslim clients if your food is not halal.

It is important to emphasise that adaptation within a chain of companies of a single owner does not mean breaking away, betrayal of loyalty or loss of brand image. It is about adjustment to suitability and sensitivity. It is also about ability to cope when challenged with change, noting that change affects different people or organisations in different ways. Indeed, adaptation and not adoption is the key for survival especially in this millennium.

This is true not just for businesses. It is also true for individuals who wish to embark on a career shift, either from one job to another or from one organisation to another. It is important to remember that it is difficult for us to change others and that it is easier for us to adjust ourselves. You need to try to see how well you can adapt. Adopt what is necessary and modify or adjust the rest. This is the best recipe for adaptation.

The following questions are a quick guide for you:

1. Identify the challenge that you are confronting?
2. What sort of outcomes are you targeting?
3. What changes do you need or want?
4. Are these changes good for you?
5. Be aware of your own capabilities
6. Do you need help?
7. Can you get help?
8. Do you have enough resources?