Write a clearer consulting scope

Original practical guidance · Adapt to the assignment. This is not a technical feasibility assessment or legal advice.

Describe the problem

Explain the current situation, why action is needed and the decision to be supported. Keep proposed solutions separate from the evidence describing the problem.

Define outputs and boundaries

Name each deliverable, intended audience and format. State exclusions, client inputs, dependencies and responsibilities so expectations can be reviewed.

Agree how work will be reviewed

Set milestones, reviewers and acceptance criteria. Include a process for decisions and changes to scope rather than leaving them implicit.

Prepare a useful enquiry

Provide a target timeframe, procurement route if known and available source documents. Avoid including sensitive records in an initial public enquiry.

Build your enquiry brief →