The Consulate and Embassy do advise. However, in my experience, their advice is based on government information and what should happen theoretically.
On this forum there is a detailed procedure for obtaining a residence permit. This post has been brought upto date by members experiences.
I think that the original question was looking for something similar.
Someone on the forum may have already done the research or in the worst situation had to help someone through this procedure and therefore has practical experience.
By sharing the experiences prevents a couple of things. It stops 1001 people visiting or telephoning the consulate. Also when the terrible day arrives, maybe late at night or over a weekend, we will at least know where to start.