Organisation Consultants

Organizational consultants, like other management consultants, provide independent and objective advice to organizations to define and achieve their goals through improved utilization of resources. They help companies achieve their business objectives by making better use of their skills and experience, or improving organizational structures and processes.

Analysis

To identify opportunities for improvement, these consultants take an objective look at the organization. They study organizational structures, assess the efficiency of business processes, and interview employees and managers at all levels. They also assess skill levels throughout the organization. The consultancy firm Accenture notes that successful organizations no longer cut or increase their workforce as a development strategy. Instead, they focus on getting the right skills in place to achieve and adapt to their evolving strategies.

Reporting

Consultants incorporate their findings in reports that highlight the strengths and weaknesses of the organization. They use their experience of other consulting assignments to compare the organization’s performance with industry best practice. The reports contain recommendations for change that will enable the organization to improve specific aspects of its performance and meet its goals more effectively.

Recommendations

Organizational consultants review their findings and recommendations with the senior management team. They advise the team on the best way to implement their recommendations and manage the process of change. They might recommend changes to business processes, different forms of organization or improvements in collaboration within the organization. Consultants might also identify a need for greater use of technology to support important business processes or new training programs to develop essential skills.

Implementation

Some consultants complete their involvement when they present their recommendations, leaving implementation to the organization's executives. Others will take responsibility for managing the process of change. They act as project managers, setting schedules and budgets for the change programs. They monitor progress against targets and overcome any barriers to change that arise during implementation. They may also plan and deliver training programs to improve skills. To maintain momentum in change programs, organizational consultants coach executives and other key figures such as departmental heads in the process of change management. They develop the skills that will enable internal staff to act as champions of change.