Not only do you face the normal pitfalls of using a contractor, but computer technology adds its own challenges. Since computers are sporadically unreliable, subject to incompatibilities and conceptually hard to understand, the best solutions are often obscure and mistakes can be costly. So, here is my advice for working with computer consultants. It applies not only to consultants, but to computer dealers, mail order houses and anyone else who sells you computer products or services. A computer consultant gives advice on selecting or using computer products, and sometimes creates, installs or services them.
Some consultants work for firms that act as brokers for their services.
Many computer consultants also sell computer hardware or software. It is important to know what kind of consultant you are talking to, because this will influence the quality of advice and the types of results the consultant can provide. For example, if you want to know what kind of accounting system to buy, you will get unbiased advice from a general computer consultant. But buying that accounting system from a VAR may be less expensive because of their discount. When you start out, look for a general computer consultant.