A comparison of social and organizational change models: Information flow and data use processes

Reviews and analyzes 5 models of the change process in terms of the ways users (change agents, consultants, and applied behavioral scientists) would manage information flow and data use. Assumptions, key issues, and problems are discussed for each model. A comparative analysis is made on the basis of 3 primary change agent roles (consultant, trainer, and researcher) which receive differing degrees of emphasis in the 5 models. The analysis is integrated in terms of the change agent's "linking function," which involves information flow and data use management activities basic to all models and all change agent roles. A comprehensive model based on this function is presented and illustrated. The relative significance and utility of each of the 5 change models are discussed and implications for further research are detailed. (30 ref)