To manage change, manage the big picture : The best reforms are achieved by keeping it simple

Purpose – This paper aims to emphasize that the best way to implement change is not to micro‐manage but rather focus on a bigger picture. Design/methodology/approach – The paper explains the importance of change, considers the best ways of achieving it, and looks at its implementation at document company Xerox. Findings – The paper describes how managers typically spend 90 percent of their time making rules, regulations and procedures, when it would be better if they spent 90 percent of their time keeping people focused. Practical implications – The paper stresses the need to keep it simple and remember that there is no way to control every detail or accurately to predict the future. It argues that, if managers make a constant effort to teach the big picture, there will be less risk of change going badly. Social implications – The paper highlights ways of improving the chances of achieving successful change in any organization, and so has wide application across society. Originality/value – The paper puts forward a seven‐step process for staying focused on essential change.