Change management proposal: Free template
Customize this free change management proposal with Cobrief
Open this free change management proposal in Cobrief and start editing it instantly using AI. You can adjust the tone, structure, and content based on your framework, client objectives, and organizational complexity. You can also use AI to review your draft — spot gaps, tighten language, and improve clarity before sending.
Once you're done, send, download, or save the proposal in one click — no formatting or setup required.
This template is fully customizable and built for real-world use — ideal for pitching organizational transformation support, leadership alignment, employee communication plans, or rollout strategy. Whether you’re a change consultant, HR advisor, or management team member, this version gives you a structured head start and removes the guesswork.
What is a change management proposal?
A change management proposal outlines your approach to guiding an organization through planned change — such as restructuring, new systems, culture shifts, or strategic pivots. It includes your scope, methodology, tools, timeline, and expected outcomes.
The goal is to reduce friction, increase adoption, and support teams through transition.
A strong change management proposal helps you:
- Define the change being addressed and its organizational impact.
- Outline a structured approach to engagement, communication, and adoption.
- Clarify expectations and key responsibilities.
- Build trust and momentum around your process.
Why use Cobrief to edit your proposal
Cobrief makes it simple to draft and deliver high-quality proposals — with AI tools to help you polish every section.
- Edit the proposal directly in your browser: No formatting issues — just click and start editing.
- Rewrite sections with AI: Improve clarity, adjust tone, or simplify your process explanations instantly.
- Run a one-click AI review: Identify unclear or repetitive language and get smart rewrite suggestions.
- Apply AI suggestions instantly: Accept changes individually or apply all recommended edits in one click.
- Share or export instantly: Send your proposal directly from Cobrief or download a clean PDF or DOCX version.
Present your expertise clearly — without getting bogged down in formatting.
When to use this proposal
Use this change management proposal for:
- Organization-wide restructuring or leadership transitions.
- New system rollouts (e.g., ERP, CRM, HRIS).
- Mergers, acquisitions, or rebranding initiatives.
- Culture or values alignment programs.
- Department-level workflow or responsibility changes.
It fits both one-time projects and multi-phase engagements.
What to include in a change management proposal
Each section of your proposal should guide the client through your approach, timeline, and value:
- Executive summary: Briefly outline the change initiative and how your support will help guide the organization through it — minimizing disruption and maximizing engagement.
- Scope of work: Define exactly what’s included — stakeholder analysis, communications planning, training sessions, rollout timelines, leadership alignment, or feedback loops.
- Methodology: Describe your change framework (e.g., ADKAR, Kotter’s 8 Steps, Prosci) and how you’ll apply it. Be clear about how employee sentiment, feedback, and adoption will be handled.
- Timeline: Break the project into phases — planning, alignment, communications, implementation, reinforcement — with estimated durations for each.
- Pricing: Present your pricing model clearly — whether per milestone, hourly, or retainer. Include optional add-ons like training or post-change audits.
- Terms and conditions: Cover payment schedule, roles and responsibilities, confidentiality, and scope boundaries.
- Next steps: End with a clear CTA — e.g., “Reply to confirm” or “Schedule a change kickoff meeting.”
How to write an effective change management proposal
Your proposal should feel structured, empathetic, and confident:
- Focus on the human side: Address how you’ll support people through the transition — not just the process.
- Be transparent about what’s included: Define where your support begins and ends.
- Align with leadership goals: Position your work as a tool to drive clarity, consistency, and confidence.
- Use plain-smart language: Avoid excessive jargon while maintaining professionalism.
- Keep formatting clean: Use clear headings, short sections, and bullet points.
- Make it easy to proceed: End with a strong, low-friction next step.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Can I reuse this proposal for different change initiatives?
Yes — just tailor the scope, timeline, and tools based on the type and size of the change.
Does this work for both company-wide and department-specific changes?
Absolutely. This template scales for any type of organizational transition.
Should I include surveys or diagnostic tools?
Yes — outlining how you’ll assess readiness or sentiment adds credibility.
Is this proposal legally binding?
No — this is a proposal. Attach or link a formal agreement or statement of work if needed.
Can I export this as a PDF or DOCX file?
Yes — once customized, you can instantly download the proposal in either format.
This article contains general legal information and does not contain legal advice. Cobrief is not a law firm or a substitute for an attorney or law firm. The law is complex and changes often. For legal advice, please ask a lawyer.