1. To help instigate and manage change

The business environment is in a constant state of change and only those on the alert for favourable opportunities will stay ahead of the pack. Because change can be threatening to many people, the change process has to be planned and managed carefully. A consultant can help.

2. To help resolve issues

Business issues can be very complex. Often a whole range of diverse but interrelated factors are involved in an issue, and the web of connections may not be readily apparent to the untrained person.

Consultants can help you deal with questions such as these:

• How do we build staff morale?
• How do we overcome behavioural problems to work?
• What computer system is needed to support the business?
• How do we introduce quality assurance programmes?
• How do we turn around a fall in sales?
• Why has there been a decline in productivity?
• How do we overcome our cash-flow crisis?
• What strategic direction should our information systems take?
  
  

3. To identify opportunities

Management Consultants can help identify favourable opportunities for your business:

• What new product lines should we adopt?
• What is the best way to improve our productivity?
• What new production techniques should we adopt?
• How do we maximise the benefits of the effective integration of people and technology?
• How do we identify key success factors for penetrating overseas markets?
• How can we become internationally competitive?
  
  

4. To help with strategic and business planning

Planning is an essential function in the running of any business and is the driving force behind competitive workplace change. Any planning activity should take into consideration certain factors, such as your competitors' and your company's strengths and weaknesses. Consultants can help you identify your strategic advantages, using the latest management techniques, to realise the full potential of your business.

5. Special functions

Consultants can provide you with an objective and independent opinion.

Two examples:

• An impartial appraisal of a proposal by a consultant with no vested interest in your organisation can lend credibility to a proposal or, conversely, demonstrate the difficulties likely to eventuate.
• A consultant can be employed to investigate sensitive issues which, if handled internally, could cause tension between staff.