Technical Assistance, Adaptive Systems Problems, and Coaching Assignments
A ll the consulting assignments I’ve been engaged in so far I can divide into three categories - straight technical assistance, adaptive systems problems, and systems improvement coaching. Each has its kicks, but I’ve enjoyed the adaptive systems work best. Straight technical assistance is what happens when they call you in to implement a known solution to a known problem. You’re like Chuck Norris parachuting in, solo or with your team, getting the job done badda-bing badda-boom, then getting exfiltrated. Oh, don’t forget to get paid. In this kind of assignment, the problem and the objectives are clearly defined, there’s a standardized, and there is a by-the-numbers solution. If there’s any uncertainty or variation, it’s usually in with personalities and the political economy of the project site. If that can be handled by project managers, the consultant can very much function as The Mechanic. Samples of straight TA assignments are helping an LGU to make a Comp...