Your company need to retain the services of a consulting firm, but you have no idea how to really evaluate "competence"? In the first part of this two-part series on Computer Consulting 101 councils recruitment, we examined why small companies find it so difficult to hire good consultancy firms, as well as four basic questions that you must be addressed when searching for a new computer consulting vendor. Now in his second and final episode of this two-part series on Computer Consulting 101 hiring tips, we'll see how you can evaluate the real, often confusing expenses of the use of a computer consulting company, and how to examine more thoroughly the computer consultancy firm professional credentials and experience.
Dealer, "Pure" Computer Consulting Company, or supplier of hybrid technology
Your company sell various products such as hardware and software? Is it a profit center or do you mind if we shop for our products elsewhere? And if we do shop elsewhere, can we still buy your needs analysis and procurement services?
Are there other providers, such as Internet service providers or telephone companies, that your firm is acting as an agent or partner? In other words, do you accept commissions or referral fees for doing business to certain suppliers?
The costs, hidden fees and billing procedures
What are your payment terms, rates and billing hourly minimum? What is billable and what is not billable?
Do you charge your travel time? The hotline? E-mail/online support? Remote?
Are there any hourly rate billing for the premiums after working hours or emergency service? What constitutes "after hours" or "emergency"?
Do you offer contracts support? What are the costs and benefits?
Accounts reference client, case studies and testimonials
Can you tell me about one of your longer-term small business accounts receivable?
Can you tell me about one of your most-recently signed on to customers? Can you tell me about small businesses a customer who has not worked and why?
Can you provide references?
Research / development of skills and keeping Sharp
How do you keep new technological developments?
What do you invoice customers and what do you absorb it? Are there grey areas?
Approaching the training and knowledge transfer
What do you think of hand and in-depth training with users?
What type of user and technical training can you provide?
Will you train our internal computer administrator to become more self-sufficient, even if it takes away your "job security" and opportunities to bill more hours?
Ultimately,
Do not fall into the ultra-common trap of hiring an independent consultant computer or computer consulting firm that is not a good way for your company. Use the Computer Consulting 101 recruitment and selection issues as the basis to make a more informed hiring decision for your computer consulting suppliers. And if you have any doubts, do not be afraid to seek a second opinion with another computer consulting firm.
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