Critique of “Consultants Get Up TEQSA’s Nose”
Contents
The article Consultants Get Up TEQSA’s Nose attempts to cast aspersions on consultants who assist higher education providers with their TEQSA (Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency) applications. However, a closer examination of the arguments reveals a significant lack of depth and objectivity. It’s particularly ironic that the author, while accusing consultants of undermining the process, conveniently sells their own writing services and “cookie-cutter” templates, making their position not only hypocritical but self-serving.
Consultants Get Up TEQSA’s nose
1. The Hypocrisy of the Argument
The central critique in the article revolves around the supposed negative influence of consultants on the TEQSA application process. The author suggests that consultants “dilute authenticity” and offer a “shortcut” to compliance. Yet, the same individual openly markets their own writing services and generic templates for institutions to use in applications. This glaring contradiction undermines the credibility of their argument.
If the author truly believes that external assistance jeopardizes the authenticity of applications, why are they actively selling similar services? Unlike professional consultants who provide tailored advice based on in-depth expertise, cookie-cutter templates fail to address the unique needs of each institution. This approach arguably introduces far more “inauthenticity” than the work of dedicated consultants.
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2. Misrepresenting the Role of Consultants
The article paints a misleading picture of consultants, implying they “hijack” the process rather than support it. In reality, consultants like those at Darlo Higher Education work collaboratively with institutions to ensure compliance with TEQSA’s rigorous standards. Far from offering shortcuts, they provide tailored, strategic advice that strengthens applications while respecting the institution’s unique identity.
By contrast, the author’s reliance on templates and generic services does little to enhance an institution’s understanding of compliance requirements. Consultants are often hired because of their proven expertise in navigating the complexities of the Higher Education Standards Framework (HESF)—a critical need that cookie-cutter solutions simply cannot meet.
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3. Ignoring the Complexity of TEQSA Applications
TEQSA applications require a deep understanding of governance, academic standards, and compliance frameworks. The article fails to acknowledge the intricate nature of these requirements, which can overwhelm institutions, especially smaller providers with limited resources.
Professional consultants bridge this gap by:
- Conducting gap analyses to identify areas for improvement
- Drafting bespoke policies and procedures that align with TEQSA standards
- Offering training and support to institutional staff
The author’s critique suggests that institutions should “do it all themselves,” disregarding the real-world challenges of time constraints, resource limitations, and regulatory complexities. Selling pre-made templates as a solution oversimplifies the process and leaves institutions vulnerable to errors or non-compliance.
Learn more about navigating TEQSA applications.
4. The Value of Collaboration
The article overlooks the collaborative nature of consulting. Reputable consultants empower institutions by:
- Engaging stakeholders, including faculty and leadership teams
- Providing context-specific recommendations
- Strengthening the institution’s internal capabilities
Unlike cookie-cutter templates, which offer generic solutions, consultants help institutions build sustainable practices that go beyond the application process. This ensures long-term compliance and operational success—an outcome the author’s services are unlikely to achieve.
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5. Criticism Rooted in Competition, Not Principle
It’s hard to ignore the possibility that the article’s criticism stems from competition rather than genuine concern. The success of consulting firms like Darlo Higher Education likely poses a threat to the author’s business, prompting them to lash out under the guise of advocacy.
This defensive posture does little to advance the conversation around TEQSA applications. Instead of acknowledging the legitimate role consultants play, the article resorts to baseless attacks that only reveal the author’s frustration with their inability to compete on quality and results.
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Summary
The article Consultants Get Up TEQSA’s Nose lacks credibility and objectivity. Its central argument is undermined by the author’s own practice of selling writing services and cookie-cutter templates, which fail to address the complexities of TEQSA applications. Furthermore, it misrepresents the role of consultants, ignoring their value in helping institutions navigate a challenging regulatory landscape.
Rather than engaging in unfounded criticism, the author would do well to focus on improving their own offerings to meet the high standards set by reputable consultants. For institutions seeking real support in achieving TEQSA compliance, professional consultants remain the best choice for tailored, effective, and sustainable solutions.
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