Why are formal approvals used in Change Management?

Formal approvals in Change Management are crucial because they ensure that all proposed changes are thoroughly evaluated for their benefits, risks, and impacts before implementation. This process helps in identifying potential issues that could arise as a result of the change, assessing how the change aligns with business goals, and determining its overall value.

By requiring formal approvals, organizations promote a systematic approach to change, allowing stakeholders to carefully weigh the implications of the changes, which helps in making well-informed decisions. This thorough evaluation increases the likelihood of successful change implementation and minimizes disruptions to business operations.

In contrast, expediting the change process may lead to hasty decisions without adequate consideration of these critical factors. Minimizing documentation could compromise the thoroughness and traceability necessary for effective change management. Delegating responsibilities to lower management without formal approvals may result in a lack of accountability and oversight, leading to poorly assessed changes that could adversely affect the organization.