Introduction
“Management consultancy is the provision to management of objective advice and assistance relating to the strategy, structure, management and operations of an organisation in pursuit of its long-term purposes and objectives. Such assistance may include the identification of options with recommendations; the provision of an additional resource and/or the implementation of solutions.”
The Institute of Consulting
There are two distinctive approaches to consulting: the expert style and the process style.
Consulting Style | Description | Features and Comments |
Expert Consulting Style
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The Expert Consultant uses their knowledge and expertise to diagnose and solve the client’s problem. This style requires the adoption of a directive and prescriptive approach
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Attractive option for clients wanting a fast and focused solution with minimal direct involvement
Client ownership of the solution or commitment to it can often be limited The solution is often technically proficient, but may not take the client organisation’s culture into account Limited value in developing the client’s independence therefore increasing the client’s reliance on the consultant |
Process Consulting Style
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The Process Consultant operates on the assumption that the client has the necessary capability to address the problem themselves, but requires advice and guidance from the consultant
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The emphasis is on helping the client to think through the problem and to generate their own solutions
Can be a time-consuming process for clients and consultants Generates a high level of commitment to solutions, but it assumes that clients possess the capability to perform Increases client ownership and long-term sustainability |
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