Thomas (1992) Org Change Theory outlines three stages. Which sequence correctly lists them?

• A. Planning, Implementation, Evaluation.
• B. Traditional (affirmative action); Understanding diversity (valuing differences); Managing diversity (way of life).
• C. Unfreezing, Changing, Refreezing.
• D. Inputs, Throughput, Outputs.

Answer: (B)

The main idea here is how organizations evolve in their approach to diversity. Thomas’s theory describes a progression from a compliance-focused, traditional stance (affirmative action) to a deeper recognition that diversity should be valued (understanding diversity), and finally to making diversity a core, integrated part of how the organization operates (managing diversity as a way of life).

In the traditional stage, the emphasis is on meeting external requirements and addressing gaps mainly through policy tweaks. Moving to understanding diversity shifts the view to appreciating differences as beneficial and worth valuing within the workplace. The final stage, managing diversity, embeds inclusive practices into everyday operations, policies, and culture so that diversity is not just acknowledged but actively shaped by the organization.

The other sequences reflect different theories—planning/implementation/evaluation aligns with general project steps, unfreezing/changing/refreezing is Lewin’s change model, and inputs/throughput/outputs comes from systems theory—not Thomas’s three-stage framework for diversity change.