Few people would argue with the theoretical requirement to take a regular, strategic look at how any business functions. But severe problems can arise when people try to put this well-intentioned theory into practice.

Indeed, day-to-day operational pressures are often so great that many organisations simply cannot find the time to consider the more strategic issues of their business.

Similarly, for those individuals that do find the time, it is often hard to analyse their businesses with the necessary degree of objectivity.

In such cases, it can be extremely beneficial for companies to draw on the views and input of people who are not only dispassionate, but also highly experienced, particularly in aspects of business development. Ideally, these individuals will be used to seeing the wood, not just the trees.

These are the individuals who can see the full potential of a business as well as the practical steps required to get there. These are the people that can truly act as the strategic ‘conscience’ of a business.