Understanding the Kotter 8-Step Change Model

The Kotter model is a structured framework that helps organizations manage major transformations with more clarity and direction. Its goal is to guide teams through change in a way that reduces confusion, builds momentum, and turns new practices into long-term habits. The model was developed by John P. Kotter after studying many companies that struggled with change. His research showed that organizations succeed more often when they follow a clear sequence instead of acting in an unplanned or reactive way.

The model is built around 8 steps that connect people, communication, and action. These steps include:

• Creating urgency
• Forming a guiding coalition
• Shaping a clear vision
• Communicating that vision
• Removing obstacles
• Generating short-term wins
• Building on improvements
• Anchoring changes in the culture

Each step supports the next one, and together they create a path that helps teams move from early uncertainty to stable adoption. Because the model focuses on both strategy and human behavior, it helps organizations manage change in a more predictable and collaborative way.^[1]