Experience illustrates that our services are obtained for one or more of the following six reasons ...
1. TIME EFFICIENCY—Too Much On Your Agenda
Similar expertise is available in-house; however, the "most important" priorities prevent some "very important" priorities from being accomplished.
Example: As a result of downsizing to a "lean and mean" organization, many specialized skills were reduced or eliminated since they were not needed on a full-time basis.
2. COST EFFICIENCY—Specialized Expertise
Equivalent expertise is not internally available. Often the role of the consultant in this case is to develop such expertise within your organization.
Example: "Total Quality Management"
3. SANITY CHECK—A Broad Perspective
An outsider is not emotionally attached to internal issues. We view the forest objectively.
Example: Facilitate and/or "gate-keep" during group planning and strategy sessions.
4. JUSTIFICATION—An “Outside Authority”
The "expert" called in is often more readily heard.
5. RUMOR PREVENTION—Politically Sensitive Matters
Confidentiality of concerns and proposed actions is maintained, even though an open discussion of pros and cons is held.
Example: Potential reorganization or key personnel changes.
6. CONVENIENT TARGET—Allow Us To “Take The Heat”
In some situations it makes a lot of sense to allow an outsider to be the "fall guy" for an unpopular decision.
Note: We will only assume this role with enough understanding of the particulars to be fully assured that it is a good decision.
|