08 Mar 2008 12:28:19 | Joshua Feinberg
Does your company need to retain the services of a competent
computer 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 hiring tips, we looked at why small businesses find it so
difficult to hire good computer consulting companies, as well as
four basic questions that you must be addressed when searching
for a new computer consulting vendor. Now in this second and
final installment of this two part series on Computer Consulting
101 hiring tips, we’ll look at how you can evaluate the true,
often-confusing expenses of using a computer consulting company,
as well as how to more thoroughly review the computer consulting
company’s professional credentials and experience.
Reseller, "Pure" Computer Consulting Company, or Hybrid
Technology Provider
Does your company resell various technology products, such as
hardware and software? Is this a profit center or do you mind if
we shop for our products elsewhere? And if we do shop elsewhere,
can we still purchase your needs analysis and procurement
services?
Are there any other vendors, such as ISPs or telephone
companies, that your firm acts as an agent or affiliate for? In
other words, do you accept commissions or referral fees for
steering business toward certain vendors?
Costs, Hidden Charges, and Billing Procedures
What are your payment terms, rates and hourly billing minimums?
What is billable and what is not billable?
Do you charge for your travel time? Telephone support?
E-mail/online support? Remote support?
Are there any hourly rate billing premiums for after-hours or
emergency service? What constitutes "after hours" or an
"emergency"?
Do you offer support contracts? What are the cost and benefits?
Client Reference Accounts, Case Studies, and Testimonials
Can you tell me about one of your more long-term small business
client accounts?
Can you tell me about one of your more recently signed-on
clients? Can you tell me about a small business client who
didn't work out and why?
Can you provide references?
Research/Developments and Keeping Skills Sharp
How do you keep up with new tech developments?
What do you bill clients for and what do you absorb internally?
Are there any gray areas?
Training Approach and Knowledge Transfer
How do you feel about handholding and in-depth training with
users?
What kind 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 from your "job
security" and opportunities to bill more hours?
The Bottom Line
Don't fall into the ultra-common trap of hiring an independent
computer consultant or computer consulting firm that isn't a
good fit for your business. Use these Computer Consulting 101
hiring and screening questions as the basis for making a more
informed hiring decision for your computer consulting vendor.
And if you have any doubts, don't be afraid to seek out a second
opinion with another computer consulting company.
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