An Investigation of Improvement and Change Management Practices in a Brazilian Based Company

Abstract

This paper reports the results of a case study research carried out in a Brazilian division of a multinational manufacturer of automobile components with the main objective of<br />investigating improvement and change management practices. The theoretical framework for the research is based on the theories on improvement and change management<br />programs, methods and capability development. After an overview of the theories, programs and approaches for improvement and change, the research method and<br />questions of research are formalized so as to guide the case study. The case study itself is presented and discussed. Results of the study indicate that although several elements<br />of improvement and change capabilities are present, functionally oriented organizational structure and a lack of formalized cross improvement and change business process undermine the potential for management performance improvements.