Definition
Advisory is a professional service that analyses a situation, identifies possible courses of action and provides recommendations to support informed decision-making.
Human Explanation
Advisory helps a person or organisation understand a situation and evaluate how to proceed.
Why it Matters
Structured analysis and an external perspective can reveal overlooked assumptions, alternatives and risks, improving the quality of a decision.
Conceptual Boundary
Advisory does not mean deciding on behalf of the client or taking over accountability for the choice. It provides analysis, judgement and recommendations; the responsible decision-maker retains ownership of the decision.
Practical Perspective
Advisory creates the greatest value when it starts with understanding the problem and context rather than promoting a predetermined solution. Recommendations should be traceable to evidence, assumptions and the consequences of available options.