Six Questions to Ask:

Before the search begins, answer within your organization: What are our research objectives?  What information do we need to have once the project has been completed?

By knowing the answers to this question, it will be easier to have initial discussions with the prospective consultants about how they can meet your information needs and if their services will fit with your objectives.

Is each project and each client treated as unique?  Are the projects custom-designed to fit your needs, or are they a standardized design?

In our experience, each organization has unique information needs.  Although there might be an element of similarity with other clients, your research project should be customized to meet your research objectives.

What is the consultant’s pricing structure?  Is the project cost based on hourly billing or fixed-fee structure?

With a fixed-fee structure, organizations can set a budget and not have to worry any changes in the cost of the project. Often, a consultant might bid a project at a certain rate with a plus/minus percentage; or submit their bid as a range, such as $12,000 to $18,500.  Typically these types of bids will require additional negotiations and could mean having to eliminate a valuable element of the project.

What is the typical timeline for a project?  Is there a guaranteed completion date?

It is important to make sure the prospective consultant can be flexible enough to begin the project based on your organization’s desired timeline; but it is equally important to have a guaranteed completion date.  In many cases, the results of a research project, such as surveys or focus groups, are incorporated into a strategic plan or is needed before implementing a special project or marketing initiative.

What will the outcomes of the project be?  Is the report easy to understand, and are the conclusions straight forward?

Perhaps the most important part of a consulting and research project is the end of the project.  Consultants have specialized areas of expertise, which should result in some valuable conclusions and recommendations at the end of a project.  Make sure the “next step” is discussed, and the consultant provides enough information to your staff and leadership so they are equipped to move forward using and implementing the results.

What experience and expertise does the consultant bring to the table?  Does their experience fit with your desired objectives? 

Asking for references is a must.  Talking with past or current clients can reveal important information, and from a different perspective.  When talking with references, ask about project history and patterns to see if the company typically works with a client on one project, or if they have a long-term client relationship.

For more tips and suggestions, check out the following articles and websites:

“All About Using Consultants”
Free Management Library
http://www.managementhelp.org/misc/cnsltng.htm

“Selecting a Consultant”
Community Technical Assistance Center
http://www.ctaconline.org/consultant.asp

“The Organization-Consultant Relationship: A Guide for Making It Work”
Fieldstone Alliance, Carol Lukas
http://www.fieldstonealliance.org/client/client_pages/articles_tools/Article-Org-Consult_Relat.cfm

“How to Hire a Consultant: A guide for nonprofits”
Stanford Social Innovation Review, Elaine Fogel
www.ssireview.org