ADKAR

ADKAR is short for Awareness, Desire, Knowledge, Ability, Reinforcement. It’s a change management framework designed to guide through the process of adopting and sustaining change. Developed by Jeff Hiatt and central to Prosci’s methodology, it focuses on the human side of change, emphasizing that successful organizational change begins with individual transformation. The acronym ADKAR represents five key stages:

  1. Awareness: Understanding the need for change.

  2. Desire: Building motivation to support and participate in the change.

  3. Knowledge: Learning how to implement the change effectively.

  4. Ability: Developing the skills and behaviors necessary to apply the change.

  5. Reinforcement: Ensuring the change is sustained over time through ongoing support.

These stages are sequential, with each step building on the previous one. The model is practical and outcome-focused, providing a structured approach to overcoming resistance, fostering acceptance, and achieving lasting improvements at both individual and organizational levels.