Collaboration and customised solutions: The future of change

Rory believes the future of change management lies in collaboration across disciplines. As the world shifts away from silos and towards more integrated approaches, the ability to co-create solutions by involving multiple areas of expertise becomes vital. This aligns with Actuate’s belief in strategic change marketing – combining the strengths of HR, marketing, and change management to deliver impactful results.

Rory highlights the importance of customised methodologies, noting that all organisations are unique. Off-the-shelf solutions are no longer sufficient in a world that requires adaptability. He advocates for tailored approaches that respond directly to the needs and nuances of each business. At Actuate, we apply this same thinking, ensuring our solutions are bespoke, innovative, and co-created with our clients.

Innovation through adaptability

Looking to the future, Rory predicts that adaptive methodologies are central to the evolution of change management. As businesses face increasingly complex challenges, the ability to approach change with a mindset of flexibility and co-creation is critical.

He notes that those closest to the problem, often the marginalised or underrepresented voices, hold the key to innovative solutions. By involving these employees in the process, organisations can unlock greater creativity and efficiency – a practice that we at Actuate also champion in our strategic change marketing approach.

Mentorship and wisdom sharing

For newcomers to the field, Rory’s advice is simple but powerful: find a mentor. Learning from the wisdom and experience of those who have navigated the complexities of change management is invaluable. Actuate shares this belief, advocating for mentorship and collaboration as central pillars to developing the next generation of change leaders.

Looking ahead: Leveraging Trauma for Growth

Rory reflects on the role of trauma in shaping change management. He discusses how organisations must embrace the wisdom from managing trauma and balancing future-focused innovation with business realities as usual. This concept of “polarity and paradox” shapes the future of change as businesses strive to remain agile while leveraging their past experiences. “Leaders are dealers in hope” (Napoleon Bonaparte) re-iterates the profound role and influence of leaders and sponsors. Shifting and reframing the question from what can go wrong to expand the curiosity for co-creating “What might go right?” 

At Actuate, we recognise the power of balancing the present with a clear focus on future growth. Our approach to strategic change marketing ensures that we navigate this complexity alongside our clients, helping them prepare for tomorrow’s challenges while thriving today.