Definition
Independent Advice is a recommendation developed without being directed by the interests of suppliers, implementers or other parties that may influence the decision-making process.
Human Explanation
The advice is based on the client’s situation and objectives rather than on selling a predetermined product, provider or implementation.
Why it Matters
Independence improves the credibility of recommendations and reduces the risk that an undisclosed conflict of interest distorts the analysis.
Conceptual Boundary
Independent Advice does not mean having no opinion, commercial relationship or professional judgement. It means that relevant interests and conflicts are disclosed and the recommendation follows from the analysis rather than from an incentive to favour one option.
Practical Perspective
Independence requires transparency about assumptions, evidence, evaluation criteria, limitations and potential conflicts. A recommendation should remain understandable even when the client chooses a different course of action.