Advisory

A course of action, option or guidance which has been recommended by someone else, especially in an official capacity but it could also be as part of a code of practice, a consultancy report, a committee, an organisation, or a warning, especially of an adverse event that might happen, such as a severe weather warning. Something which is advisory does not have to be followed, as it is not usually legally enforceable (otherwise it would be mandatory) but it should be carefully considered as it will typically identify a desirable (or least worst) outcome. This is especially relevant where the advisory information has been given by an expert or from an elected or regulatory organisation. If the advisory information is not followed and an accident or incident arises from ignoring the advisory information, then there might be legal implications. However, there might be several possibilities available to achieve a desired outcome from any advisory information, so it will be for the receiver of the advice to make a decision as to which action or option to follow.