If you are like most businesses, you have undertaken projects that you either abandoned or that failed to produce the desired results.

If you are like most businesses, you are saddled with budgetary constraints and limited resources that prevent allocating the most qualified internal staff to projects that are outside the scope of those employees’ job descriptions. Under such conditions, one of the best options available is the use of consulting to augment internal staff so that critical projects don’t fail.

Once you’ve determined that a project requires external resources, how do you go about choosing the consultant that will ensure your project’s success? Here's how to select the best project manager.

Defining Project Requirements

The first step in selecting a suitable consultant is having a clear definition of the requirements and desired result(s) of your project. What is the business problem that’s being addressed by the proposed solution? You may have a specific software application you want to implement and need expertise in that particular system to install, configure, and train internal staff in its use. Other business issues may just require the use of a third-party consultant as a set of objective “eyes.” Whatever the issue is, knowing what you want to achieve from a project will drive your consultant selection, so this is a critical first step.

Selecting Consultants

Now that you know where you’re going, you need to know how you’re going to get there. If your intent is to implement a commercial software application package, you can start with a software vendor for recommendations.

Prepare a request for proposal (RFP) with the project requirements and send it to the top consultants on your ‘best options’ list. The RFP should, at a minimum, contain the project’s key deliverables, the level of expertise of those you’re providing as internal resources, and your desired timeframe.

Once the proposed consultants respond, you can begin to evaluate their suitability based on their:

• Previous experience in your type of project (Do they have references?)
• Methodology
• Cost estimates, rates, and payment terms
• Availability
• Offered services

Southeast Computer Solutions has the experience and technical expertise you need to drive your project to successful completion – on time and cost-effectively. Contact us to learn how we can benefit your company with software selection, implementation, and ongoing support.

About Southeast Computer Solutions

Southeast Computer Solutions is based in Miami, Florida, and has additional operations in Mexico. For over 30 years, we have positively impacted the success of small and mid-sized businesses with effective business management implementations that improve our clients’ operations. We listen, we are accessible, and we care. Learn more by visiting our website or calling 305-556-4697.