Changing requirements are a difficult and costly problem. This paper describes the results of an empirical study of the problems associated with change and the approaches taken for dealing with them. It recognizes the need for a method for selecting processes and tools from the viewpoint of handling change. A context-driven approach is taken to developing a method for generating a set of criteria tailored to the specific context. Three main strategies for achieving the goal of minimizing the adverse impact of change and maximizing the benefits of change are recognized: identifying change early in the lifecycle, facilitating the incorporation of change and reducing change. Examples of tactics that support each of the strategies are presented. This model, together with guidelines for its use, constitutes a method for the assessment of requirements engineering and design methods, processes, tools and techniques within their organizational context.