The Power of the "ACE" Memo

The author proposes the Actionable, Credible & Emotional (ACE) framework for crafting an effective launch memo, as clear launch communication sets the tone of the execution.

• Actionable: Clearly state what will be achieved with the change, and what roadmap you have for the change.
• Credible: Provide a concrete rationale for the change, so you get everyone’s buy-in.
• Emotional: Layout employees’ incentives for implementing change, so they feel invested.

Using complete sentences and avoiding jargon in the memo reduces ambiguity among employees. It also proposes the ‘Now, Next, Then’ method to draft the memo:

• Now, describes the current situation and the challenges prompting the change.
• Next, outline the specific actions and steps to be taken.
• Then, lays out the anticipated outcome of the change.

Inspiring Confidence Through Resource Allocation

The article emphasizes that employees need the confidence to implement the change by being given the resources required. Not just in terms of money and hires, but also in terms of the time and bandwidth needed alongside their current work, and the autonomy to make their decisions as they execute the change.

The Role of Amplifiers

The author identifies “increasing transparency, improving precision, and diffusing power” as the three factors that act as amplifiers driving the change execution. Mechanisms that enhance these hand power to employees to convert the vision of change into actual execution.

Here, we may add that learning and development plays a critical role in arming employees with the skills they need for the three amplifiers, such as communication skills, attention to detail, and building trust.

The Role of Metrics

The author emphasizes the role of metrics that measure outcomes, such as sales or referrals, rather than measuring actions, such as number of meetings. By aligning employee goals to the change expected, organizations can ensure that the vision is transformed to reality.

The author argues that the 257 companies studied followed these four factors to successfully executing change initiatives.

To summarize, an organization has a good chance of success in changing its way of business when it follows ACE communication, identifies the right resources, amplifies mechanisms and measures for outcomes.

Link to original article: How to Actually Execute Change at a Company