What if we're not ready to use both frameworks right away?

For some change agents and/or change teams, their preference may be to start with one framework and add components of the other over time as their change initiative evolves. While applying both frameworks can accelerate your success, there may be situations in which one framework is more suitable. Plus, each framework has their own unique characteristics (e.g., collective identity for the SMA Framework and formal evaluation processes for the KTA Framework) which you may feel is particularly relevant for your change initiative. For this purpose, a decision tool (see below) with guiding questions has been developed to help you and your change team to choose one of the two frameworks to get started based on your needs. Remember that you can always add components of the other framework later on to enhance outcomes or scale an initiative.

The decision tool (see below) takes a practical approach to help you select either the SMA or KTA Framework and includes 10 guiding questions categorized according to the six most common areas associated with change: why, what, who, where, when and how. Answers of either Yes, No, and/or Maybe are provided with a brief discussion. 

The questions highlight the similarities and differences of the two frameworks. It was developed by the Leading Change Toolkit Development Team with consensus by the expert panel.

The decision tool is not meant as a score card but to showcase the unique characteristics of each framework. There is no wrong choice; either framework can be useful - just try and decide which one is better suited for your needs. Be aware that there is no precise formula for picking a framework; try to remain open-minded and trust your instincts about what will work. Don’t worry about trying to find a perfect fit as there may not be one – instead, make a choice and get started where you are with the people who are already interested in your ideas.