Co-creating a Change Program with Stakeholders: The Key to Successful Transformation

By Sara Coene

7 min read

Why co-creation is essential

Organizational change is no longer a top-down process; it’s a collaborative journey. In a world where change is accelerating, involving stakeholders in the design and execution of a change program is crucial. Co-creation not only builds greater buy-in but also ensures solutions better align with the needs and expectations of the organization.

Co-creation goes beyond simply gathering ideas or feedback. It means treating stakeholders as equal partners in the process. Together, you define the vision, strategy, and even the practical execution of the program. The result? Greater ownership, deeper engagement, and a program that thrives not only on paper but also in practice.

What is Co-creation?

Co-creation is a process where various stakeholders — from employees to external partners — come together to develop shared solutions. It requires transparency, collaboration, and a clear structure.

Where traditional change management often focuses on imposing and communicating, co-creation emphasizes listening, sharing, and co-designing. This process recognizes that stakeholders often have deeper insights into the organization’s daily realities than project leaders or consultants. By leveraging that knowledge, changes become more relevant and sustainable.