AZA3764 - Consulting - 2019

The unit explores consulting as a process by which an individual or firm assists a client to achieve a stated outcome in the complex South African markets of corporate communication and public relations. The unit considers a consultant as someone who has expertise in a specific area or areas and offers unbiased opinions and advice for a fee. The opinion or advice is rendered exclusively in the interests of the client. Activities and practices include the provision of information, assessment, analysis, recommendations and implementation strategies.

The scope of the unit is explicitly practical in its orientation. It addresses the question: How can you turn your knowledge and abilities into a successful career outcome as a consultant in the communication industries?

The unit draws on the experience of selected individual professional consultants in South Africa. Students will be expected to formulate and (with assistance) work on their own consulting project. Related topics include client service, communication strategy, and proposals and presentations to clients.

After successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:

1. understand the consultant's role in the communication industry
2. describe the nature of a communication consultant's work
3. demonstrate problem-solving skills relevant to communication consulting
4. demonstrate presentation and reporting skills relevant to communication consulting.

Within semester assessment: 100%

Minimum total expected workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 144 hours per semester typically comprising a mixture of scheduled learning activities and independent study. A unit requires on average three/four hours of scheduled activities per week. Scheduled activities may include a combination of teacher directed learning, peer directed learning and online engagement.

See also Unit timetable information

Communication and media studies - South Africa

Public relations practice - South Africa