Organizational Development for Knowledge Management at Water ...

Force Field Analysis 7
A mechanism for assessing and dealing with the various forces that aid or hinder the
implementation of a program or project.
Supports: problem solving, decision support, collaboration and knowledge sharing
LEVEL OF EFFORT
SIZE OF UTILITY
SCOPE OF WORK
LOW
SCALABLE
NARROW
A Force Field Analysis can be used to identify forces in place that support or work against
the solution of an issue or problem. It illustrates the driving forces that can be reinforced or the
restraining forces that should be eliminated or reduced. Force Field Analysis can also be used
to analyze the positives and negatives of the implementation process. The Force Field Analysis
prepares members of a team or community to analyze and tackle elements of a project that
prohibit them from achieving their goals. It also identifies positive forces that can be
strengthened to propel the project forward.
The process starts with a ―T ―diagram. Write the current problem and the ideal situation or
solution to the problem at the top of the diagram. Evaluate the forces driving the ideal state and
list those on the left-hand side of the diagram. List the restraining forces, or forces that are
holding the team or Utility from attaining the ideal situation on the right-hand side. When all the
forces have been identified and listed, evaluate the list. Ask which restraining forces might be
reduced or which driving forces may be enhanced to bring one closer to the ideal situation.
Here is an example of using a force field analysis to consider an individual’s fear of public
speaking:
Current Problem:
Ideal State:
Fear of public speaking
To speak confidently, clearly, and concisely in any situation.
+ Driving Forces Restraining Forces –
Increase self-esteem
Helps career
Communicates
ideas Contributes to a plan/solution
Encourages others to speak
Helps others to change
Past embarrassments
Afraid to make mistakes
Lack of knowledge on the topic
Afraid people will be indifferent
Afraid people will laugh
May forget what to say
Here’s a quick overview of how to construct a Force Field Analysis diagram:
7 Adapted from the Department of the Navy Knowledge Centric Organization Toolkit
C-52
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