Adaptive Data Governance: The AT-EASE Change Management Approach - Data Governance: Creating Value from Information Assets - page 150

INTRODUCTION
This chapter presents the AT-EASE change management approach for
adaptive data governance. The term adaptive data governance is based on
the notion of adaptive challenges. In adaptive challenges, problem defi-
nition, solution, and implementation of solutions are not clearly defined
at the outset and require new learning (Heifetz, Grashow, and Linsky,
2009a). Given the rapid changes in the technology and business envi-
ronment, as well as the continuously expanding knowledge base of data
governance standards and best practices, data governance requires an
adaptive process of ongoing learning and problem solving for leaders as
well as for employees. Further, data governance requires people to change
their values, beliefs, and behaviors related to data collection, protection,
and use. Accordingly, data governance requires a sustained commitment
to change management (Harris, 2011).
Recent change management approaches recognize that people do not
change based on logical analysis and facts alone, and that the way people
feel about the change affects the extent to which they embrace change.
Leaders should assess the emotional and behavioral factors that affect
people's willingness to change, and take steps to guide and support them
through the change process over an extended period of time. Rather
than using a universal checklist, organizations need an intentional and
systematic process that can help them assess potential pitfalls in their
IT initiatives, and develop appropriate strategies for managing change
(McAfee, 2003). Such a process can help organizations overcome pitfalls
and realize the value of data governance initiatives.
While many approaches incorporate ideas, such as emotion and motiva-
tion, the notion of at ease is the pivotal organizing idea for the AT-EASE
approach. The AT-EASE learning model provides a systemic model that
supports integration of technical and adaptive elements of data gover-
nance in a way that maintains a consistent focus on helping individuals
toward greater at ease as they move through the change process over time.
The AT-EASE model is based on the premise that feeling at ease supports
engagement and participation in learning and change (Ciborra, 2004;
Immordino-Yang and Damasio, 2007; Kahn, 1990; Porges, 2004; Schore,
2009). Based on an extensive review of recent neuroscience findings, Rock
(2009) suggests that the brain's over-arching principle in responding to