Application of CHAMPS2 to Change Management
Introduction
The model is particularly strong for large transformations, such as:
- Digital transformation
- Structural reforms
- Service redesign
- Regulatory or policy-driven change
- Multi-agency collaboration
Below is how CHAMPS2 aligns with modern change management practice.
1. Clear rationale and “case for change” (Mandate)
CHAMPS2 ensures change begins with a compelling strategic mandate.
This supports change management by:
- Providing a shared narrative
- Aligning leaders early
- Reducing ambiguity about purpose
This is the equivalent of building Kotter’s Step 1 (Urgency) or Prosci’s Why.
2. Deep stakeholder and system understanding (Understand)
This stage maps:
- stakeholder motivations
- pain points
- cultural factors
- impacted processes
This is a core change management activity, ensuring engagement and anticipating resistance.
3. Strong future-state design (Define)
The Blueprint approach is powerful for change because it:
- clarifies exactly what success looks like
- aligns people, process, technology, and governance
- avoids “fuzzy change”
This is similar to Target Operating Model design used in major transformations.
4. Alignment of benefits to actions (Define / Develop)
CHAMPS2 requires measurable benefits to be attached to initiatives.
This supports change management by:
- making change meaningful and measurable
- creating accountability
- ensuring leaders stay committed
5. Phased implementation that supports adoption (Deliver)
The model encourages incremental and iterative delivery.
This is ideal for change management because it:
- reduces workforce shock
- allows for testing and adaptation
- builds momentum through quick wins
6. Embedding and sustainability built in (Adopt / Realise)
CHAMPS2 includes explicit steps for sustainability which is often the weakest area of change.
It requires:
- capability building
- performance measures
- benefit tracking
- continuous engagement
This aligns with Prosci’s Reinforcement (ADKAR) and Kotter’s Anchoring in Culture.
7. Governance and integration (All phases)
Governance is central to CHAMPS2 and supports change by:
- clarifying decision rights
- ensuring leaders stay aligned
- preventing siloed delivery
- enabling structured risk management
Summary
CHAMPS2 is essentially a structured roadmap for transformation.
It helps organisations:
- know exactly why they are changing
- understand the current reality
- design a clear future
- deliver change in a controlled and benefit-driven way
- embed and sustain the change
It aligns beautifully with change management theory and fills many gaps that traditional change models leave open, such as around benefits, governance and system-wide impacts.
(main sources: Madel, Monika et al, 2021; Birmingham City Council, 2010)