Reorganisation

Reorganisation, or reorganising in British and Commonwealth usage, is the process of changing the structure of an organization, system, or institution to improve efficiency, adapt to new conditions, or realign with strategic objectives. It can affect businesses, government agencies, and nonprofit or civil society organizations, and may involve altering reporting lines, functions, locations, or ownership structures.

Within business, common forms include restructuring, mergers and acquisitions, spin-offs, demergers, divestitures, and the consolidation of units or processes. In government and public administration, reorganisations aim to improve policy coordination, service delivery, governance, and accountability by reconfiguring ministries, agencies, or regulatory frameworks. In the military, reorganisations adjust command structures, force composition, and doctrine.

Drivers include strategic shifts, financial pressures, regulatory changes, technological advancements, and the need to reduce costs or improve risk management. Reorganizations are typically planned using a design phase, stakeholder consultation, legal and regulatory review, and a phased implementation with change management and communication plans. Success depends on clear objectives, governance structures, and the management of transitional issues such as employee relocation, morale, and knowledge transfer.

Possible outcomes include increased efficiency and clarity, but risks include disruption, cost overruns, loss of expertise, and resistance to change. Legal and contractual considerations, labor law compliance, and regulatory approvals can influence timing and feasibility.

Note spelling: reorganisation is the common form in many countries, while reorganization is preferred in American English; both refer to the same process when describing structural change.