Chapter 14. Using Consultants Effectively

Consultants are available for nearly any purpose, covering every conceivable area of expertise. If you are considering using consultants on your project, how do you choose the right consultant for your needs? Is there a difference between a consultant who charges $100 an hour and one who charges $300 an hour? How do you get the best value from the consultant you choose? This chapter discusses these topics.

The two primary types of engagement models used in consulting are staff augmentation and expert consulting. Both types, when used properly, can reap great benefits. They can round out a project team, helping the project finish on time. They also can transfer knowledge to the rest of the staff that can pay benefits for the next several projects.