Change is something all organizations face at some point. Whether it’s new technology, a shift in company culture, or a different way of doing business, helping people adjust can be tricky. That’s where the Prosci ADKAR Model can be really helpful. It gives a clear, simple path to guide people through change in a way that makes sense and actually works.
ADKAR stands for Awareness, Desire, Knowledge, Ability, and Reinforcement. These five building blocks are what people need to personally move through change successfully. While some might get formal training or certifications in it, the basics of ADKAR are easy to understand and use in everyday work.
Let’s break it down. First, people need Awareness of why the change is happening. This isn’t just about sending out a company-wide email. It means helping everyone understand why the change is needed right now. If people don’t know the “why,” it’s hard to care about the “how.”
Next comes Desire — the personal choice to get on board. You can’t force someone to want to change, but showing how the change makes their day better or easier can help. Maybe it reduces stress or opens up new opportunities. Either way, people need to see how it benefits them.
Knowledge is about learning how to change. This might mean training sessions, guides, or pairing up with coworkers. The key is that people need clear information to move forward.
Once they know what to do, they need the Ability to actually do it. This is where practice and support matter. Whether it’s new software or new habits, people need time and help to get it right.
Finally, Reinforcement helps make the change stick. Celebrating small wins, giving feedback, or even just saying “good job” can go a long way. It reminds people that the change is worth keeping.
The ADKAR Model is simple, but it works because it focuses on people—not just processes. Change doesn’t happen because leadership decides it should. It happens when individuals understand it, support it, and feel ready for it.
So, whether you’re leading a big change or just helping your team do something new, ADKAR can be a helpful guide. It reminds us that real change happens one person at a time.