Dougherty's four major phases include entry, diagnosis, implementation, and disengagement. Which phase occurs when the consultant winds down involvement with the consultee and client?

• A. Entry
• B. Diagnosis
• C. Implementation
• D. Disengagement

Answer: (D)

Disengagement is the phase where the consultant winds down involvement with the consultee and client. After the planned actions are carried out, this stage focuses on closure and ensuring the client can continue without ongoing support. It involves summarizing what was accomplished, ensuring sustainability by transferring ownership and responsibility to the client or organization, providing final recommendations, and documenting lessons learned for future work. This phase is distinct from entry, which centers on establishing rapport and contracting; from diagnosis, which is about assessing needs and setting goals; and from implementation, which involves carrying out the agreed actions.