Incremental Change

Incremental change is the concept that programs and organizations develop over time by making small alterations; that is, by changing components or activities in increments, thereby building on the status quo. This type of change is evolutionary and gradual, creating minor improvements without addressing basic assumptions about organizational goals or operations. It contrasts with radical or revolutionary change, in which people are encouraged to question basic assumptions about the program and its structure, activities, and outcomes, leading potentially to dramatic actions that can transform an organization. Given its adaptability, program evaluation can support both types of change.