Change seems to be either dreaded or desired, but when it arrives, it never goes smoothly. Change often brings unexpected risks and costs, and unpleasant surprises. That’s where a Management of Change – or MOC – process comes in. However, it’s often unclear what exactly constitutes a change and how it can be managed. We’ll take a look at what change means, and why a MOC process is pivotal for your company’s future.

What is change?

Change, according to OSHA 3313, includes all modifications to any component, variable, or property within an existing system. Think about the last time you started using new software, had to alter equipment or change the organizational structure or QA process. That’s change. No matter the size of the change, company-wide restructuring or a new screw in a machine, it’s important to track what and who it affects, how people will be affected, and how to minimize risks. Lack of tracking means lack of control, and without control the outcome may be less than desired.

The consequences of uncontrolled change

Anyone can think of a change their company implemented that went superbly wrong. If the whole company is involved, the damage of not having a MOC system is obvious: poor communication doesn’t get the employees on board, lack of follow-up leads to confusion, missed steps, poor implementation, and loss. But these risks also happen on a smaller scale and therefore need just as much tracking. Managed well, change needn’t include risks or unexpected costs. Additionally, in the manufacturing industry, ill-managed change leads to health and safety risks for the employees. For example when a piece of equipment is changed without proper tracking and communication, which would put the employees using it at risk.

What about emergencies?

Using a MOC process seems like a superfluous task in an emergency. Why track it when you can just do it? During emergency situations is when a MOC process truly shines: the checklists and necessary steps to follow do not slow down a seasoned employee, yet provide a structure within times of chaos. MOC helps avoid error, miscommunication, and unwanted consequences. Additionally, a proper MOC tool facilitates instant communication, gaining you precious time.

Smoothing the process with software

The TenForce Management of Change module makes your MOC process infinitely easier by centralizing all necessary data and providing an easy communication tool. You are able to control and track any change, keep the right people informed automatically, and have a full overview of changes – past, present, and future. MOC is time-consuming, but our software eliminates that problem. You will avoid loss, mitigate risks, and care for your company’s future. Take look and learn more about us.