What is ADKAR®?

Time to Read: 2 Min

What is ADKAR®?

The Prosci ADKAR® Model is one of the two fundamental models within the Prosci Methodology, alongside the PCT Model. 

ADKAR® is a widely recognized influential model for understanding and managing change within organizations. It provides a structured approach to guide individuals and teams through the process of change, with the goal of achieving successful outcomes. 

This model, developed by Prosci founder Jeff Hiatt nearly two decades ago, draws from the examination of change patterns across over 700 organizations. 

Today, the ADKAR Model serves as a staple tool for numerous change leaders globally while addressing any impediments or obstacles encountered during the journey.

The term "ADKAR" is actually an acronym that represents the five key building blocks or milestones that individuals need to achieve for change to be successful. These five elements are:

• Awareness : This stage involves creating awareness among individuals about the need for change. People must understand why the change is necessary, what it entails, and how it will affect them.

• Desire: Once individuals are aware of the change, they need to develop a desire or motivation to support and participate in the change. They should see the benefits of the change and be willing to commit to it.

• Knowledge: Knowledge refers to equipping individuals with the information and skills required to make the change. It involves providing training, resources, and tools to ensure that individuals understand how to implement the change.

• Ability: After gaining knowledge, individuals should have the ability to execute the change effectively. This means they can perform the new tasks, use the new systems, or apply the new processes as required

• Reinforcement : The final step is reinforcement, which involves sustaining the change over the long term. This includes recognizing and rewarding individuals for their efforts, reinforcing the new behaviors and practices, and monitoring progress to ensure the change becomes a part of the organization's culture.

As change practitioners have long recognized that people managers are essential to success with Change Management work, ADKAR is a valuable resource for people managers and change leaders as they navigate change within their teams and organizations. 

Here is how it provides a structured approach to Change Management leading to smoother transitions and higher rates of successful change adoption:

1. Common Language: ADKAR provides a standardized and straightforward language for discussing change within an organization. This common language helps people managers communicate more effectively with their employees and colleagues about the change process. When everyone involved in the change initiative understands the terminology and framework, it reduces confusion and ensures that messages about the change are clear and consistent.

2. Simplicity and Ease of Use: The ADKAR model is designed to be user-friendly and easy to apply. People managers can quickly grasp its concepts and structure, making it a practical tool for guiding their teams through change. Its simplicity allows managers to focus on the specific needs of their employees and tailor their support accordingly.

3. Resistance Mitigation: One of the primary benefits of ADKAR is its ability to help identify and address resistance to change. Managers can use the model to pinpoint where employees may be struggling in the change process—whether it's a lack of awareness, desire, knowledge, ability, or reinforcement. By identifying these barriers, managers can implement targeted strategies to mitigate resistance and support employees in overcoming their challenges.