The ACD cycle is an iterative cycle for change projects: SCAN - FOCUS - ACT - REFLECT. A full cycle is completed every 3-4 months. This is the optimal duration from one transition state to another. (See also Transition State Planning).

 

The ACD cycle is based on John Boyd's OODA loop which has gained popularity as a decision-making tool within business circles in recent years. We also took a lead from the world of consulting with their SCAN-FOCUS-ACT method for running workshops. We added REFLECT to create a transformation management cycle that repeats across the whole programme.