IT Consultants
Mention the word consultant to a bunch of business people and you might find an interesting response. For quite a few businesses their experience of consultants has not been good and they see them as over paid suits with little value to add.
I would question this and say that there is a role for a good consultant in many businesses.
When I need a radiator replaced I call a consultant – in this case called a plumber. He is a very efficient chap that can quickly get my heating system fixed for a reasonable rate. Of course I could muddle through and do the job but it will take me 5 times as long and be very frustrating. I value my free time so am prepared to hire an expert.
Here is some advice on engaging an IT consultant;
- Recognise you need help sooner rather than later
- Define exactly what you want from the engagement – objectives and outcomes
- Shop around and find a consultant that has experience of doing a similar job in the same industry
- Ask and take up references
- Work with your consultant and ensure they have all relevant information to hand
- Maximise their time on site by preparing paperwork and make people available as appropriate
- Inform staff of the role and objectives of the consultant so they are not seen as a threat
- Get the consultant to tell you the good news and the bad news, but always get an action plan for the next steps
- Don’t bog the consultant down in politics, try and get them to remain objective
In my experience many IT consultants fail because they have not been managed correctly. Follow these tips and you should be fine.
Related content
Choosing an IT consultancy supplier
Mr BITG, Virtual Director, Business IT Guide
