What are the benefits and drawbacks of using external TPM consultants or auditors?

1 Benefit: Expertise and Objectivity

One of the main advantages of hiring external TPM consultants or auditors is that they can bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to your organization. They can provide you with best practices, benchmarks, tools, and methods that have been proven to work in other industries and contexts. They can also offer an objective and unbiased perspective on your current situation and performance, as well as suggest realistic and actionable recommendations for improvement. External TPM experts can help you avoid common pitfalls, overcome challenges, and accelerate your TPM journey.

2 Drawback: Cost and Dependency

However, hiring external TPM consultants or auditors also comes with some disadvantages. One of them is the cost involved in paying for their services, travel, and accommodation. Depending on the scope and duration of the project, this can be a significant investment for your organization. Another drawback is the risk of becoming dependent on external TPM experts for guidance and support, rather than developing your own internal capabilities and culture. External TPM experts may not always understand your specific needs, goals, and constraints, and may not be able to transfer their skills and knowledge effectively to your employees.

3 Benefit: Validation and Recognition

Another benefit of using external TPM consultants or auditors is that they can provide you with validation and recognition for your TPM efforts. They can help you measure and monitor your progress, achievements, and gaps, as well as provide you with feedback and recognition. They can also help you prepare for and obtain external TPM certifications, such as the JIPM TPM Excellence Award or the Shingo Prize. These certifications can enhance your reputation, credibility, and competitiveness in the market, as well as motivate and reward your employees for their hard work and dedication.

4 Drawback: Resistance and Conflict

On the other hand, using external TPM consultants or auditors can also generate some resistance and conflict within your organization. Some of your employees may feel threatened, intimidated, or resentful by the presence and influence of external TPM experts. They may perceive them as outsiders, critics, or competitors, rather than partners, mentors, or allies. They may also resist or reject their suggestions, recommendations, or feedback, due to fear of change, lack of trust, or pride. These negative reactions can hinder your TPM implementation and performance, as well as damage your internal relationships and morale.

5 Benefit: Networking and Learning

A final benefit of hiring external TPM consultants or auditors is that they can help you expand your network and learning opportunities. They can connect you with other organizations, experts, and resources that are relevant and beneficial for your TPM journey. They can also facilitate your participation in external TPM events, such as conferences, workshops, seminars, or site visits. These events can provide you with valuable insights, ideas, inspiration, and examples from other TPM practitioners and leaders. They can also enable you to share your own experiences, challenges, and successes with others, and learn from their feedback and advice.

6 Drawback: Alignment and Integration

A last drawback of using external TPM consultants or auditors is that they may not always align and integrate well with your organization's vision, values, and culture. They may have different expectations, assumptions, or approaches than yours, which can create confusion, misunderstanding, or misalignment. They may also have different priorities, agendas, or interests than yours, which can create conflicts, tensions, or trade-offs. They may also have limited time, availability, or commitment to your organization, which can affect their continuity, consistency, or quality of service. These factors can affect your TPM implementation and performance, as well as your satisfaction and trust with external TPM experts.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?