How the Prosci Methodology Enhances Workday Change Management Success

Ashlee Salinetro
Jun 17
3 min read

Prosci Workday Change Management Consulting

When organizations invest in a powerful platform like Workday®, the technology is only one part of the equation. Real success depends on people - how well they adopt, use, and sustain the change. That’s where Workday change management comes in.

At PeopleOps Plus, we specialize in Workday change management consulting that’s rooted in proven science and tailored to the Workday implementation phases. One of the foundational methodologies we use is Prosci®, a globally recognized framework that drives effective, people-centered change.

Why Workday Implementations Fail Without Change Management

Workday implementations often focus heavily on system configuration, integrations, and testing. But even the most technically perfect solution will fall flat if end users don’t embrace it. Common challenges we see include:

Confusion around new processes
Resistance from managers and employees
Low utilization of self-service features
Increased help desk tickets and frustration
Delayed ROI

Change management ensures that employees understand the "why" behind the change, feel supported during the transition, and are equipped to thrive in the new system.

What Is the Prosci® Methodology?

Prosci is a research-based change management methodology. One of the most well-know Prosci models is the ADKAR® model, which focuses on individual transitions. ADKAR stands for:

Awareness of the need for change
Desire to participate and support the change
Knowledge on how to change
Ability to implement required skills and behaviors
Reinforcement to sustain the change

This model gives us a roadmap to guide people through the Workday transformation and overcome adoption barriers at every phase.

Applying Prosci to Workday Change Management

At PeopleOps Plus, we align Prosci change management principles with the phases of a Workday implementation. Here’s how we do it:

1. Discover and Strategize (Pre-Plan to Plan Phase)

We begin with a baseline PCT (Project Change Triangle) assessment and stakeholder analysis to understand organizational readiness. Our change strategy integrates ADKAR right from the start to anticipate resistance and tailor support.

2. Plan and Engage (Architect to Configure)

We develop robust communications and training plans that address ADKAR milestones. This is also when we build your change champion network and begin measuring early indicators of awareness and desire.

3. Share and Develop (Test Phase)

Training materials, help articles, and communications are developed with the end user in mind. We leverage user acceptance testing sessions not just to give users insight to their Workday functionality, but also to gather feedback on training and engagement.

4. Cutover and Train (Deploy Phase)

We deliver role-based, just-in-time training aligned with the “Knowledge” and “Ability” phases of ADKAR. We also prepare leaders and support teams to manage questions and concerns during go-live.

5. Support and Sustain (Post Go-Live)

Hypercare and support plans are activated. We listen to feedback, track adoption metrics, and ensure end users feel confident in the new system.

6. Reinforce and Optimize (Ongoing Adoption)

We don’t stop at go-live. Using adoption analytics and employee sentiment data, we deliver reinforcement strategies and help clients continuously improve their Workday people experience.

The Value of a Prosci-Certified Workday Change Management Partner

Working with a Prosci-certified Workday change management consultant ensures your organization is not just checking a box - it’s investing in sustainable adoption and long-term ROI. Our change management consultants bring Workday functional knowledge, HR and Finance operations expertise, and a proven change management framework to guide your people through the Workday implementation, all while driving lasting results.

Ready to Make Workday Work for Your People?

If you’re implementing or enhancing your Workday solution or need support boosting adoption post-go-live, we can help. PeopleOps Plus provides expert Workday change management consulting grounded in the Prosci methodology - because the best Workday solutions are the ones your people actually use.

Workday® is a registered trademark of Workday, Inc. PeopleOps Plus LLC is not affiliated with Workday, Inc., nor does Workday, Inc. sponsor or endorse PeopleOps Plus LLC, its services, or its website.