How to Determine the Need for an External Consultant

650 Words3 Pages
INTRODUCTION Almost all companies use consultants these days, they do it for a lot of reasons. There are many reasons why companies use consultancy services. In most cases it is about making the company as efficient as possible although in some cases the use of consultants is done in a rather cynical manner. Whatever the reason, there are few companies that don’t use them these days. Consultation is an integral part of most, if not all, organisations. Some problems, however, are best resolved by a consultant from outside of the organization. This essay presents a decision-making model for use by organisations in determining the need for an external consultant. The decision-making model involves two general steps. Each step introduces a series of incumbent questions. In the first step, the nature of the problem is assessed, and questions about the philosophical foundation, theoretical framework, and problem subtraction are introduced. In the second step, the requirements for solution of the problem are described, precipitating questions about the consultant role requirements, role functions, and introspection and evaluation. Through systematic questioning about the nature of the problem and the solution requirements, the organisation may make an informed decision regarding the recommendation to employ an external consultant. An overall blueprint for the systematic questioning in this decision-making process is presented. Circumstances where it would be appropriate to engage consultants could be where there is: - Insufficient or unavailable expertise in the relevant area within the organisation at the time of need; - A requirement for neutrality, impartiality and a high level of objectivity (external to the Organisation); or - A need to draw on expertise and specialized skills available only from external sources. The engagement of consultants is not normally

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