When a change is imposed by an external force, which type of change is it?

• A. Bottom-up change
• B. Top-down change
• C. Incremental change
• D. Transformational change

Answer: (B)

External-imposed change comes from above, so the direction, goals, and implementation are driven by leaders or an external mandate. This downward push—often with a formal policy, timeline, and allocated resources—defines top-down change. It contrasts with bottom-up change, which starts with ideas and improvements from frontline staff; it isn’t initiated by those at the top. While incremental change involves small, gradual adjustments and transformational change involves a big, fundamental shift, the key distinction here is who initiates the change. When the impetus comes from the top or from an external force, it’s top-down change.