Factors Affecting Managerial Willingness to Change : A Case Study on Change Management When Implementing New Digital Technology

Abstract: The rapid growth of technology development increases the need for incumbent organizations to digitally transform. Studies show that digitally mature organization have a 26% higher profitability than peers (Westerman et al., 2012), nonetheless, success is rarely obtained as it requires incumbents to radically change their working methods and participate in a very painful transition. To gain knowledge on how to increase the success rate of digital transformations, this thesis examines what critical factors that affect the willingness for change of first line managers. Furthermore, it shows how change management can be applied to improve this willingness. Using a qualitative and exploratory approach through a case study, this research shows that earlier experience of work-related change, perceived usefulness and digital maturity affect the first line managerial willingness to change. Except from applying general theories on change management as well as considering more specific research on technology implementations, this study suggest organizations should focus on leading digital change from transforming individuals based on the three critical factors found to affect managerial change willingness. In doing so, stakeholder management analysis is suggested being a helpful tool as well as moving focus from the technology to a new way of working.