Capstone Convergence represents one of the most significant operational transformations The University of Alabama has undertaken in years. UA is committed to updating tools and processes and supporting faculty and staff through big system changes like Workday and the new research administration tool.
UA is using ADKAR, a structured, people-centered approach to change management to make sure faculty and staff know what’s changing, why it matters and how they will be supported during the transition.
This work also builds on the progress made through UA’s Agility Program, which has spent the past few years helping departments strengthen their processes and adopt continuous improvement practices. Capstone Convergence puts that work into action on a campus‑wide scale. Faculty and staff can also take advantage of Agility’s training opportunities to build skills that make adapting to new processes and systems easier.
ADKAR: UA’s Method for Managing Change
ADKAR stands for Awareness, Desire, Knowledge, Ability, and Reinforcement. These are the five elements people need to help successfully adopt new systems and new ways of working.
ADKAR is useful because it focuses on people, not just processes or technology. Even the best solutions like Workday or the new research administration tool won’t succeed if people don’t understand the changes, feel supported or have what they need to do their jobs well.
What ADKAR Means for Faculty and Staff
UA is committed to giving people the right information at the right time, using the ADKAR method to guide us in how and when changes are introduced and supported. This approach helps ensure faculty and staff are informed and ready without feeling overwhelmed, which makes the switch to new systems easier and more manageable. That means paying attention to what people need at each step of the transition:
- Awareness: We’ll explain what’s changing and when, and why it matters
- Desire: We’ll show you how our new systems will help make your work easier and more productive
- Knowledge: We’ll provide training and resources when people need them, not all at once
- Ability: We’ll strengthen people’s skills through training, informative workshops and opportunities for hands‑on practice
- Reinforcement: We’ll keep sharing updates, celebrating progress and building new habits over time
UA’s approach to change is built on one simple promise: no one will have to go through these changes alone. UA will be helping people every step of the way as Capstone Convergence rolls forward. This ensures that everyone feels supported, prepared, and confident as the university moves into a more modern way of working.