Especially for small and medium-sized enterprises, outsourcing the internal whistleblower system to an external Ombudsperson is advantageous, as there is often a risk that the identity of the whistleblower may become known in companies with a smaller workforce.  In addition, the internal reporting channel must be operated by an independent and competent person or department. Conflicts of interest must be avoided and the persons in charge of the task must be trained regularly. When a Whistleblowing Ombudsperson is appointed, all these obligations are waived for the company (provided a suitably qualified provider has been chosen).