Consultancy and Professional Practice

• Credit value: 15 credits at Level 7
• Tutor: Alistair Cumming
• Assessment: a group presentation (20%) and final report (80%)

This module critically examines the evidence base for, and practical delivery of, consultancy. You will review consulting processes and practices from the perspective of the client, internal and external consultant. Particular consideration is given to ethical considerations and professional practice within the context of different stages of the consultancy cycle.

By the end of the module, you should be able to:

• explain and evaluate different models of, and approaches to, consultancy practice across a range of organisational contexts and specific interventions at individual, team and organisational levels
• review the respective roles of (and dynamics between) clients, internal and external consultants and other key stakeholders in different types of consultancy engagements
• design plans and interventions to meet identified needs in a timely, feasible and cost-effective way
• understand how to manage the stages of a consultancy life cycle from engagement to evaluation
• act ethically and professionally with a demonstrated commitment to (a) equality of opportunity and diversity within the consultancy engagement and (b) to continuous personal and professional development.