Transitions in the National Security Sector: Implementing Change that Lasts

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INTRO

National security professionals know that creating enduring impact requires more than issuing policy memorandums. Successful leaders utilize the “machinery of government” to work on their behalf, rather than trying to go around it. They value informed deliberation of courses of action, identifying and collaborating with career officials who can effectively translate a policy goal or outcome into operational reality. They also engage key partners and stakeholders, effectively align interests and activity, and create important feedback mechanisms.

At Guidehouse, we have seen government leaders use certain methods to produce the culture change needed to achieve these important outcomes. Effective use of the following three methods stood out as critical to implementing lasting change:

Empowering people
Using meaningful decision-making structures
Incentivizing innovation

Explore insights from experienced federal leaders and change management experts on these methods and other related topics.

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Transitions in the National Security Sector Podcast Mini-Series

Whether it is the transition to the second term of a sitting Administration, or the transition to a new one, life inside dynamic national security departments and agencies gets even more so from election to inauguration and onward through the first 100 days. This special spin-off series from Guidehouse and American University's School of Public Affairs dives into that world, exploring what agency officials can expect during this timeframe, and how to prepare for success.

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