Using consultants is a cost effective means of gaining information pertinent to your project, they can provide answers to many issues and assist in setting direction, planning and acquisition.                                      

* Corporate history, qualifications, experience, associations
* Client list, references, project detail
* Contractual basis, payment by hours, fixed sum, expense, progress payments
* Industry knowledge, specific projects, experience
* Confidentiality agreements, copyright assignment
* Professional ethics and Code of conduct

* Terms of reference and project objectives
* Project budget and funds available
* Background information, achievement and progress to date
* Expectations, involvement, outcomes, timing, deadlines
* Operating structure, reporting levels and reports

The Project

Usually consulting projects are in distinct stages

* Briefing, outlining all aspects of the project
* Consultants proposal, detailing costs, budgets, timing and commitment
* Proposal review and formal acceptance 
* Project start, information review, what there is and what is needed
* Action, according to the proposal, variations if any
* Draft report, recommendations and final report

Think long term with your consultant, usually they can come cheaper the longer you use them.