Live Tool
Analysis setup
Strength scale: 1 (weak) to 5 (strong)
Word and Google Docs exports download an HTML document. Excel exports an `.xls` worksheet, and Google Sheets exports a CSV file that can be imported into Sheets.
Calculator Library / Change Management
Force Field Analysis Builder
Weigh the forces driving a proposed change against the forces restraining it. Score each force, watch the bar chart update live, and see whether driving or restraining forces currently have the upper hand.
Editable Forces
Driving and restraining forces
Driving Forces
Restraining Forces
Preview
Force Field Analysis
Driving Forces
Restraining Forces
How to Use This Force Field Analysis Builder
Name the proposed change or goal, then list the forces pushing the change forward (driving forces) and the forces holding it back (restraining forces). Score each force from 1 to 5 based on how strong its influence is. The chart bars scale with strength so the team can quickly see which forces matter most on each side.
Using the Results
| Situation | Suggested Response |
|---|---|
| Driving forces clearly outweigh restraining forces | Proceed with the change, but keep monitoring the strongest restraining forces |
| Restraining forces clearly outweigh driving forces | Add or strengthen driving forces, or directly address the strongest restraining forces first |
| Forces are roughly balanced | The change is unlikely to stick without deliberate action on at least one side |
Export and Print Options
Use Print / Save PDF to open the browser print dialog and save the finished analysis as a PDF. Use the Word and Excel buttons when you need an editable file for Microsoft Office. Use the Google Doc and Google Sheet buttons when you need a file that can be uploaded or imported into Google Drive.
FAQ
What is a Force Field Analysis?
Force Field Analysis, developed by Kurt Lewin, weighs the forces driving a change against the forces restraining it, helping a team decide whether to strengthen driving forces, weaken restraining forces, or both.
How is force strength scored?
This tool scores each force from 1 (weak) to 5 (strong). The bar length for each force scales with its strength score so the team can see which forces matter most at a glance.
What should a team do if forces are balanced?
When driving and restraining totals are close, the change is unlikely to move forward on its own. The team should add or strengthen driving forces, or find ways to reduce the strongest restraining forces, before proceeding.
When should Force Field Analysis be used?
Use it when planning a change that requires buy-in, such as a new procedure, kaizen event implementation, or policy change, especially when resistance is expected.