Are you not sure who actually owns and develops The Four Rooms of Change? Here, we clarify who holds the legitimate rights and explain why this is important for you, whether you’re a certified user or an end user. We also explain how you can ensure that you’re using the authentic concept.
Change is a constant in our lives, affecting us as individuals, our organizations, and society. The Four Rooms of Change is one of the most widely used and proven tools for managing change in a structured and effective way. The concept is backed by solid research, decades of practical application, model development, and the creation of analytical tools. That’s why it works so well – and why so many people can attest to its effectiveness. Today, the concept is used globally, has been translated into over 20 languages, and has been proven effective across a wide range of cultures and organizations.
Why Plagiarism and Counterfeits Exist
Unfortunately, with success come misunderstandings and attempts to exploit the concept’s reputation. “Lookalikes” and fake versions have emerged that lack the research background and practical experience that make The Four Rooms of Change the powerful tool it is. Using such copies carries a risk – it can lead to more harm than good.
Examples of plagiarism and counterfeits include House of Change and Change House, which have been appearing in slightly different variations for many years.
However, there have also been more serious transgressions. In 2020, operators emerged who launched the concept under the name Janssen’s Model. This was an aggressive attempt to take over The Four Rooms of Change, its certification system, and our entire business. They even claimed that Claes Janssen, the originator behind the theory, had sold his rights to them. Furthermore, they exploited our customer database, undermined our business dealings, and stole the framework developed by A&L Partners Consulting AB in collaboration with Claes Janssen.
What applies – and it’s crystal clear
To dispel any uncertainty: A&L Partners Consulting AB owns all commercial rights to The Four Rooms of Change. This includes the theory, models, analytical tools, and certification system. Here are the facts:
- Since 1993, A&L Partners Consulting AB has developed and commercialized the concept in close collaboration with the creator, Claes Janssen. We created the educational tools, certification programs, and business strategies, and we spread the concept globally.
- The license agreement with Claes Janssen Konsult AB covers the theoretical background and research. The agreement is valid through 2039 and renewable.
- Neither party can unilaterally terminate the agreement. A license cannot be transferred to a third party as long as the agreement is in effect.
- Claes Janssen’s license applies solely to theory and research. The conceptualization of The Four Rooms of Change, including its models, analytical tools, and certification, belongs exclusively to A&L Partners Consulting AB. No one else may enter into agreements or issue certifications regarding the concept.
- Our trademarks, including The Four Rooms of Change, Fyrarummaren, and Four Rooms of Change, are registered and protected in Sweden, the EU, China, Singapore, Australia, North America, and Canada. Recently, the Swedish Patent and Registration Office (PRV) unanimously rejected all applications to invalidate our trademarks, thereby confirming their validity and our protection against infringement.
What does this mean for you?
As a certified user or end customer, it means that:
- A&L Partners Consulting AB is the only legitimate provider of products, services, and certifications related to The Four Rooms of Change.
- Your certification is valid only with us. No one else can guarantee the quality, experience, or research background that we possess.
- To ensure that you are using the authentic concept, you should always contact us with questions, for support, training, or advice.
We have also developed a customized platform to deliver the analytical tools and other services of The Four Rooms of Change online. Developed in close collaboration with corporate clients during the pandemic, the platform is ready for use and has been thoroughly tested.
Unsure? Contact us.
If you have received conflicting information, or if you are unsure of what applies, please reach out to us. We are here for you, and we are the only source that can guarantee authenticity, quality, and legal certainty.
Photo
Noah Näf, Unsplash.