A: No, we are a consultancy providing advice and practical solutions. While the majority of our customers are Medical Device manufacturers and their suppliers, we can undertake Quality Systems and other work irrespective of industry sector. For example, we provide quality systems work to an industrial refrigeration company, an engineering company and also microbiological validation work to non-medical companies with cleanrooms

A: Depending upon diary commitments, High Edge Consulting will always attempt to accommodate work at short notice. One day a week is normally reserved for ‘office’ work which can often be used for short notice requirements. It is therefore usually possible for us to start working the same week or within 5-10 working days. We recognise that time is often of the essence and not all issues cannot be foreseen, therefore we do not penalise customers by adding additional ‘short notice fees’ into our contracts or quotes.

A: High Edge Consulting are able to accommodate large projects resulting in on site consultancy of two or more days per week. Projects of this size would need to be booked far enough in advance to ensure diary reservations for the required dates according to the project plan. Projects that are intensive but short lived lasting only a couple of months and those that are more steady but long term of, say a year, can both be catered for. High Edge Consulting always recommend that for larger projects a Project Manager is identified to ensure smooth running of a project plan. We have no preference if the Project Manager is a member of staff or provided by High Edge Consulting, as we have staff with these skills too.

A: Recruitment of suitably skilled staff can be expensive not only in the realms of agency finder fees but in the salary needed to retain good quality staff. A consultant on a part time basis may prove to be more cost effective and provide a saving on employee related costs such as employers’ NIC, pension, holiday pay etc. Often a full time initial post may end up being part time say for example once a new quality system has been accredited. By selecting a consultant over an employee means that an initial full time (or part time) position can be reduced as and when required, namely at the end of a project. A consultant can also be additional resource when needed at peak times. Another benefit of having a consultant is that they bring good practical experience from a wide knowledge base.

A: Both standard and bespoke courses are offered on all of the services in our portfolio including Internal Auditing, Introduction to Microbiology, Cleanroom Behaviour and Basic GMP, please see our services page. Full documentation is provided to all delegates to accompany the training. Standard documentation can also be provided electronically for customisation by the organisation prior to delivery of training thus providing delegates with documentation specific to them. Bespoke training would include specific documentation to accompany the training delivered. Training certificates are also provided to each delegate who successfully completes the course.

A: No. However, we can and do put our customers in touch with reputable testing laboratories. Being completely independent, High Edge Consulting does not ‘recommend’ any particular company but does provide a list of laboratories for your convenience. We make no financial gains for putting companies in touch with testing laboratories and will not accept any ‘Reward’ that may be offered to us.

A: We do not charge for travelling time in the UK. Where a car is used, a pence per mile expense is charged. For the rest of the world, an agreement would be made with you on a reasonable travelling time charge. Any travelling expense such as trains, taxi, flights etc is recharged to you at cost.

A: When overnight stops are necessary we re-charge at cost only, including the cost of meals and drinks. In fact all expenses incurred are only ever re-charged at cost. Wherever possible we try to avoid overnight stays for single days on-site.

A: Yes, a contract is required for all work undertaken by High Edge Consulting, a copy of which is available on request. The contract stipulates the terms and conditions that business is being undertaken and the circumstances in which the contract can be terminated by either party. The contract is fair to both parties.

A: High Edge Consulting has a confidentiality policy written into every contract for your protection; we are also willing to sign customers own confidentiality policies in addition to this. All work undertaken is always in the strictest confidence.