Finding the Right Computer Consultant

Hiring a computer consultant can be a daunting task. Finding the right person to build and manage your company's technology systems means trusting a stranger to keep your business running -- even when you don't understand exactly what they're doing. Unfortunately, you can´t tell whether a consultant

has what it takes just by looking at their resume or educational background.

Where to Look

Technology changes quickly, and when choosing a consultant there´s no substitute for a recent, relevant work record. Start with sources that have first-hand experience with computer consultants. Check with businesses similar to yours, professional organizations, the local Better Business Bureau or chamber of commerce, or even your accountant or attorney.

A local computer dealer can also refer you to a consultant, although you should know that some vendors offer preferential treatment and discounts to consultants who distribute their products. This isn´t necessarily a drawback -- a consultant who maintains relationships with certain vendors can pass along the discounts to clients.

Some vendors, including Microsoft, IBM and Sun, offer official certification programs that keep consultants current on new technology. You should also ask whether a consultant belongs to a recognized professional organization, such as the Association of Computing Machinery (ACM) or the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE). Certified consultants may charge a bit more, but a reputable certification program gives them a distinct advantage.

What to Ask
When you interview a consultant, describe your needs as clearly as possible. Tell a consultant that you need a more efficient network or a reliable multi-user accounting system -- don´t ask for specific hardware or a particular brand of software unless you have a clear reason to do so. Stay focused on your business goals, and let the consultant decide how best to meet them.

That doesn´t mean you should ask only vague or general questions. Keep talking until you´re sure that the consultant understands exactly what your business does and how a technology solution will mesh with your business needs. Ask a consultant to explain a solution one step at a time -- if they can´t tell you want they want to do in clear, easy to understand language, find a consultant who can.

Consulting fees vary quite a bit depending on what a consultant does and how long it takes; in most cases, however, you´ll pay between $600 and $1,200 a day for an experienced general consultant. Some consultants charge by the hour or the day, while others quote a flat fee for an entire project or use more complicated rate structures. As a rule, hourly or daily rates are best, because they give you more control.

Manage the Process, Not the Technology

Once the consultant starts your job, focus on keeping the project on course and on budget. Break down the project into distinct steps, each with its own goal and target date. This will give you ample warning if the project schedule slips or incurs extra costs. If the consultant buys hardware or software for you, make sure that you´re covered if products don´t work, aren´t right for the job or don´t arrive on time.

Also, ask for regular written reports and documentation; after the consultant is done, you´ll have a permanent record of what they did and how they did it, making it much easier for others to maintain and upgrade the technology.

What Comes Next?

Think about what you´ll need when the project is done. If a consultant sets up a network or installs new software, how will you handle maintenance and training? Some consultants offer long-term support deals, while others subcontract maintenance and training to other consultants. Ask about service and support before you hire the consultant, and if possible negotiate a service agreement as part of the consulting agreement.