Too often we hear of technical consultants being called into a business due to a catastrophic event – generally concerning hacked computers or lost data. But as Chris Hughes, an account executive with North Kingstown’s Bridge Technical Talent, wrote in a recent blog, to only see tech consultants as experts for troubled times is overlooking their value – and potentially missing some benefits along the way.
PBN: Is there a misconception out there that tech consultants can only be helpful to a company if it is having some kind of problem?
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HUGHES: That misconception does exist, but tech consultants are most needed by healthy companies. Growing businesses develop new products, undertake ambitious projects, scale to meet their clients’ needs or embark upon mergers and acquisitions, all of which usually require complex integrations and expertise not available in-house. Of course, some technology issues are pressing in any environment: for example, cybersecurity threats.
PBN: How can an outside perspective offer value?
HUGHES: The value of an outside perspective is realized by the subject matter expertise of the consultant. For example, a company installing a new software package often doesn’t have experience with that specific product. So, an outside perspective is required with subject matter expertise for a successful installation – they will have familiarity with it technically and functionally but have also seen mistakes that other companies have made, effectively helping to make the most of their investment.
PBN: Are there certain kinds of industries that need tech consultants more than others right now? Maybe some that have more innovation taking place at this particular time?
HUGHES: All industries are experiencing technological innovation. … Historically, regulated industries [such as] banking, health care and utilities have legislative deadlines. Fintech leverages technology quickly, driving the need for cutting-edge contract talent. Vertical-market software companies and companies in the business of innovation are demanding the most technical consultants.
PBN: What is the most common issue consultants see regarding technology in businesses?
HUGHES: Given the pace of change in technology, there’s always some rapid-growth area that is new enough that the pool of experienced talent is exceeded by the demand, which creates a ripe environment for technical consultants. But the best technical consultants aren’t simply solving tech issues; they’re solving business issues. Some of the most common issues and areas where consultants can have the greatest impact is in helping businesses identify untapped assets and unlock their full value, or help businesses choose the right technologies.
PBN: What is the best piece of advice you can offer a company that is considering hiring a tech consultant?
HUGHES: Ask yourself, “Does this decision solve my business issue? Does the firm you’re working with align with your goals? Will the deliverables produced by the consultant result in increased revenue, decreased cost or improved utilization of assets?” Also, don’t automatically go with the vendor’s professional services; do your due diligence and call me!
Susan Shalhoub is a PBN contributing writer.
