Change-Management-Foundation APMG-International Change Management Foundation Exam Free Practice Exam Questions (2025 Updated)

Social media is a type of communication channel that allows for online interaction and collaboration among people. Social media can be used to foster engagement and collaboration during change, as it can provide information, feedback, support, and innovation. However, social media also poses some challenges and risks, such as misinformation, distraction, or conflict. Therefore, the best practice for getting the most from social channels during change is to make clear to people what is considered acceptable use of social media, such as the purpose, tone, frequency, and content of the messages. The other options are not best practices, as they either encourage unrestricted or restricted use of social media, which can have negative consequences for the change.

Comprehensive and Detailed In-Depth Explanation:

Patrick Lencioni’s Five Dysfunctions of a Team model, referenced in the APMG Change Management Foundation, outlines characteristics of effective teams by identifying dysfunctions to avoid: Absence ofTrust, Fear of Conflict, Lack of Commitment, Avoidance of Accountability, and Inattention to Results. Let’s analyze each statement against Lencioni’s positive traits:

•Statement 1: "Members should be encouraged to draw attention to colleagues’ failures to meet commitments" – This relates to accountability, a positive trait in Lencioni’s model. Effective teams hold each other accountable, addressing underperformance constructively to maintain standards. However, the phrasing "draw attention to failures" suggests blame rather than Lencioni’s emphasis on supportive, team-focused accountability (e.g., “How can we help you meet this?”). In practice, effective teams discuss commitments openly but not punitively, making this statement misleadingly negative and thus false in the strict context of Lencioni’s intent.

•Statement 2: "Conflict should be avoided to maintain good relationships" – This is false. Lencioni argues that avoiding conflict (Fear of Conflict) prevents healthy debate and resolution, weakening team performance. Effective change teams embrace constructive conflict to challenge ideas and reach better decisions. For example, debating a change strategy’s risks ensures a robust plan, whereas avoiding conflict might preserve harmony at the expense of quality.

Since Statement 1 misrepresents accountability’s tone and Statement 2 contradicts Lencioni’s advocacy for conflict, neither is true. Option D reflects the APMG interpretation of Lencioni’s model, where trust, constructive conflict, and mutual accountability define effective teams.

Comprehensive and Detailed In-Depth Explanation:

Tuckman’s model (Forming, Storming, Norming, Performing, Adjourning) in the APMG Change Management Foundation describes team evolution. The question focuses on challenging assumptions. Let’s explore each stage exhaustively:

•Forming: Members are polite, cautious, and focused on understanding roles. Assumptions exist but aren’t tested—people avoid conflict. For example, a new change team might accept a plan without question initially.

•Storming: Correct answer. This stage involves conflict as members assert ideas and challenge norms. Testing assumptions (e.g., “Is this the best approach?”) is natural as roles clarify and tensions rise. The APMG notes Storming’s messiness drives growth, like a team debating a change timeline’s feasibility.

•Performing: The team collaborates effectively, having resolved conflicts. Assumptions are aligned, not challenged, as focus shifts to results.

•Adjourning: Closure dominates, with reflection on achievements, not testing assumptions.

•Why B: Storming’s friction is where assumptions are questioned, shaping team dynamics, per Tuckman and APMG.

Comprehensive and Detailed In-Depth Explanation:

The Continuous Change Cycle (Discovery, Ideas, Prioritization, Action) in APMG is iterative. Breaking actions into tasks occurs in Action, where plans are executed. Let’s analyze:

•Discovery: Assesses needs (e.g., low morale). No tasks yet—just insights.

•Ideas: Generates solutions (e.g., better communication). Still conceptual.

•Prioritization: Ranks ideas (e.g., training first). Defines what, not how.

•Action: Correct. Implements plans, breaking them into tasks (e.g., “schedule training” vs. “launch campaign”). APMG stresses manageability here.

•Example: A morale boost via training is split into actionable steps (e.g., book trainer, set dates) in Action.

Comprehensive and Detailed In-Depth Explanation:

William Bridges’ Transition Model is a key framework in the APMG Change Management Foundation, distinguishing between change (the external event) and transition (the internal psychological process). The model has three phases: Ending, Losing, Letting Go; Neutral Zone; and New Beginning. Let’s evaluate each option with extensive detail:

•Option A: "The planned actions required to make a change" – This describes the mechanics of change (e.g., implementing a new system), not transition. Bridges focuses on the human experience, not logistical steps, so this is incorrect.

•Option B: "The emotional process of adjusting to a change" – This is the correct definition. Bridges emphasizes that transition is about how people emotionally and psychologically adapt to change. For example, when a company relocates, the change is the move, but the transition involves employees grieving the old office, feeling disoriented, and eventually embracing the new space. The APMG framework highlights this emotional journey as central to Bridges’ model.

•Option C: "The time elapsed between letting go of the old and experimenting with new ways" – This partially aligns with the Neutral Zone phase but is too narrow. Transition encompasses the entire process (all three phases), not just a time segment, making this incomplete.

•Option D: "The physical process of adopting new changes" – This again focuses on external actions (e.g., using new tools), not the internal adjustment Bridges describes, so it’s incorrect.

Option B captures the essence of Bridges’ model: transition is an emotional, human-centered process, distinct from the tangible aspects of change. The APMG materials use this to explain why managing feelings—like resistance or hope—is critical during change initiatives.

Comprehensive and Detailed In-Depth Explanation:

The APMG Change Management Foundation identifies four key principles for engagement: Inclusivity, Connectivity, Transparency, and Dialogue. The scenario describes open communication ("talk about anything"), trust, and achieving positive outcomes, which directly aligns with the principle of Dialogue. Dialogue emphasizes two-way, trust-based communication that fosters understanding and collaboration, enabling stakeholders to discuss concerns openly and work toward solutions. Inclusivity focuses on involving everyone, Connectivity on linking people and ideas, and Transparency on sharing information—none of which fully encapsulate the trust and conversational outcome described here.

Mayfield’s seven principles of stakeholder engagement are:

Engagement is a two-way process

Identification is a continuous practice –new stakeholders emerge during a change old ones can fade away

Different levels of engagement are required depending on where people are along the change journey

Engagement requires empathy –understanding what matters most to stakeholders

Engagement requires authenticity –being honest about what can be influenced

Engagement requires creativity –finding ways to involve stakeholders in meaningful ways

Engagement requires courage –being prepared to have difficult conversations

Therefore, option B is one of Mayfield’s seven principles of stakeholder engagement.References: https://apmg-international.com/sites/default/files/Change%20Management%20Foundation%20Sample%20Paper%2020%20-%20v1.0.pdf (page 11)

Emergent change is a type of change that arises from within an organization, rather than being imposed from outside. Emergent change is influenced by complex responsive processes, which are the patterns of interaction and communication that occur among people in an organization. To manage these processes, change leaders should focus on the main purpose of the change rather than specific events, as this helps to create a shared vision and direction for the change. The other options are not good advice for managing complex responsive processes, as they either ignore, restrict, or overreact to them, which can hinder the emergence and adaptation of the change.References: https://apmg-international.com/sites/default/files/Change%20Management%20Foundation%20Sample%20Paper%2032%20-%20v1.0.pdf (page 11)

The psychological contract is the unwritten and implicit agreement between an organization and its employees, which defines their mutual expectations and obligations. The psychological contract can be broken when either party fails to fulfill their promises or obligations, such as changing the terms and conditions of employment, reducing the benefits or rewards, or violating the trust or respect. When the psychological contract is broken, it can have negative effects on the organization, such as lower employee engagement, commitment, and loyalty; higher turnover, absenteeism, and grievances; and lower productivity, quality, and innovation. Therefore, one of the effects of breaking the psychological contract is that the likelihood of achieving performance targets reduces. The other options are not effects of breaking the psychological contract, but rather causes or consequences of other factors.

Resistance to change is a common reaction that occurs when people perceive a threat or loss from the change. Resistance can be shown in different ways, such as denial, avoidance, passive-aggressive behavior, or sabotage. Sabotage is a deliberate attempt to undermine or obstruct the change. To deal with sabotage, change leaders should try to understand the reasons behind it and address them constructively. One possible action is to allocate important change tasks to the saboteurs, as this can increase their involvement, ownership, and accountability for the change. The other options are not suitable responses, as they either ignore, isolate, or accept the sabotage, which can worsen the situation and damage the change.References: https://apmg-international.com/sites/default/files/Change%20Management%20Foundation%20Sample%20Paper%2028%20-%20v1.0.pdf (page 11)

Comprehensive and Detailed In-Depth Explanation:

Neuroscience insights in the APMG Change Management Foundation highlight how the brain learns during change. Statement 1 ("Following moments of insight, offer supportive feedback") is true, as research (e.g., Rock’s AGES model) shows that reinforcing insights with feedback strengthens neural pathways, aiding learning. Statement 2 ("Positive informative talks from experts") lacks specific neuroscience backing in this context; while informative, it’s not highlighted as a key learning enhancer compared to feedback after insight. Thus, only Statement 1 is true.

A vision statement for a change is a concise and compelling description of the desired future state that the change aims to achieve. A vision statement should have several characteristics, such as being clear, inspiring, realistic, and verifiable. Being verifiable means that the vision statement can be measured and confirmed when it is achieved. The other options are not desired characteristics of a vision statement, as they are either too detailed, vague, or irrelevant.References: https://apmg-international.com/sites/default/files/Change%20Management%20Foundation%20Sample%20Paper%2014%20-%20v1.0.pdf (page 11)

Comprehensive and Detailed In-Depth Explanation:

Qualitative measures (e.g., interviews) in APMG explore “why” behind behaviors (e.g., resistance reasons), unlike quantitative (numbers), leading (predictive), or lagging (past results).

The McKinsey 7S model is a framework to analyze and improve organizational performance and effectiveness. The model consists of seven interrelated elements: strategy, structure, systems, shared values, skills, style, and staff. Shared values refer to the core values and beliefs that guide the organization’s vision, mission, and culture. The attitude of staff toward their work is an example of shared values. The other options are examples of other elements in the model.References: https://apmg-international.com/sites/default/files/Change%20Management%20Foundation%20Sample%20Paper%2012%20-%20v1.0.pdf (page 11)

Two-way communication is a type of communication that allows for feedback, interaction, and dialogue between the sender and the receiver. Two-way communication is useful for engaging stakeholders, building trust and rapport, clarifying expectations, and resolving issues. Two-way communication encourages and increases people’s motivation to interact to find out more, as they feel valued and involved in the change. Therefore, statement 2 is true. However, two-way communication is not useful for getting important information out quickly to large groups of people, as it can be time-consuming, complex, and inconsistent. For this purpose, one-way communication, such as newsletters, emails, or announcements, may be more suitable. Therefore, statement 1 is not true. References: https://apmg-international.com/sites/default/files/Change%20Management%20Foundation%20Sample%20Paper%2023%20-%20v1.0.pdf (page 11)

Comprehensive and Detailed In-Depth Explanation:

The 'change curve' (based on Kübler-Ross’s model) describes emotional stages individuals experience during change: shock, denial, frustration, depression, experiment, decision, and integration. The APMG Change Management Foundation stresses proactive support to guide people through these stages effectively. Option A ("Actively involve line managers in listening and providing support") is recommended because line managers are well-positioned to offer personalized support, listen to concerns, and help staff navigate emotions—key to moving through the curve. Option B misinterprets negative emotions as a management failure rather than a natural response, Option C isolates individuals, and Option D is passive and unsupported by the framework.

Comprehensive and Detailed In-Depth Explanation:

Communication in change management, as outlined in the APMG Change Management Foundation, encompasses verbal, non-verbal, and symbolic elements, all critical for engaging stakeholders. This question tests our understanding of these dimensions with a focus on precision and interpretation. Let’s dissect each statement with exhaustive detail, exploring definitions, examples, theoretical roots, and practical implications:

•Statement 1: "Non-verbal communication can be written"

oDefinition and Context: Non-verbal communication traditionally refers to cues conveyed without words—body language (e.g., posture, gestures), facial expressions, tone of voice, and physical actions. The APMG framework aligns with this, emphasizing its role in conveying emotions and intent duringchange (e.g., a leader’s confident demeanor reinforcing a message). Written communication, however, is inherently verbal, as it uses words to express meaning, even if it’s symbolic (e.g., an exclamation mark).

oAnalysis: The statement suggests written forms (e.g., emails, reports) qualify as non-verbal, which contradicts standard communication theory. For instance, a memo announcing a restructure is verbal because it relies on text, though its tone or formatting might imply emotion (e.g., bold text for urgency). Some might argue that emoticons or punctuation are non-verbal, but these are extensions of written language, not standalone non-verbal cues like a nod or frown. The APMG materials don’t classify written communication as non-verbal, reserving that for physical or auditory signals.

oConclusion: False. Non-verbal communication excludes written forms in this context, as it’s defined by absence of linguistic content.

•Statement 2: "Our actions can speak volumes without saying a word"

oDefinition and Context: This aligns with symbolic actions and non-verbal communication in the APMG framework. Actions—like a manager using a new system first—carry meaning beyond words, influencing perceptions and emotions. This is rooted in social psychology (e.g., Bandura’s observational learning), where behaviors model expectations.

oAnalysis: True and strongly supported. For example, during a cultural change to promote collaboration, a leader joining team brainstorming sessions silently signals commitment, “speaking volumes” about priorities. The APMG emphasizes symbolic acts (e.g., Kotter’s short-term wins) as powerful engagement tools, appealing to hearts and minds without verbal explanation. Even subtle actions—like consistent punctuality—reinforce messages non-verbally.

oExample: A CEO discarding old branding materials during a rebrand visually communicates “we’re moving forward,” amplifying the verbal vision.

•Evaluation of Options:

oA (Only 1 true): Incorrect, as Statement 1 is false.

oB (Only 2 true): Correct, as Statement 2 is true and 1 is false.

oC (Both true): Incorrect, due to Statement 1’s inaccuracy.

oD (Neither true): Incorrect, as Statement 2 holds.

•Nuance and Counterargument: One might argue written symbols (e.g., a red “X”) are non-verbal, but in change management, non-verbal is distinct from written artifacts, focusing on observable behavior. The APMG prioritizes this practical distinction.

•Why B: Statement 2 captures the essence of non-verbal influence, a key lever in change communication, while Statement 1 misaligns with foundational definitions.

Bridges’ model of human transition describes three phases that people go through when they experience change: ending, losing, and letting go; the neutral zone; and the new beginning. The neutral zone is a period of uncertainty, confusion, and anxiety, but also creativity, innovation, and learning. To help people through this phase, change leaders should describe this period as an opportunity to learn new skills, explore new possibilities, and experiment with new solutions. The other options would not help people through this phase, as they would either maintain the status quo, increase gossip and rumors, or limit feedback channels.References: https://apmg-international.com/sites/default/files/Change%20Management%20Foundation%20Sample%20Paper%2010%20-%20v1.0.pdf (page 11)

According to Morgan, machines is a metaphor that applies to an organization that has structured and tightly-controlled processes. This metaphor views organizations as rational, efficient, and predictable systems that operate according to predefined rules and procedures. This metaphor emphasizes order, stability, hierarchy, and control.