[Danimal16]

Why do they need her research?

I mean the recommendations that were implemented as a result of her effort are the meat of her efforts.

If they have those procedures, why do they need the research?

IMO, there is nothing immoral about her not just giving the research to them, they have what they need to solve the problem that they seem to have made.

If they are seeing something different, yes, they should enter into a consultant relationship.