EVALUATING CONSULTANT PROPOSALS

Choosing a consulting firm to work with you on your telecommunications project can often be the most difficult decision you make, especially if the consultant will play an important role in the project. As it is often difficult for consultants to explain the exact nature of their work, such a decision is further complicated. Following is criteria, suggested by some of our clients, that they feel is important when evaluating consultant proposals.

THE WRITTEN PROPOSAL:

• Is the proposal easily understood?
• Is it relevant to your project?
• Are the consultant activities specific?
• Are the consultant deliverables stated?
• Are time frames specific and acceptable?
• Are several references listed for the past five years?
• Have you checked any of the references listed?
• Are the referenced projects similar to yours?
• Are any repeat clients listed?
• Were any problems experienced on the projects referenced?

THE CONSULTING FIRM:

• How long has the firm been in business?
• How many professional consultants on staff?
• What is the individual experience level?
• What is the consultant's relationship with vendors?
• Does the firm have a code of ethics?

THE FEE STRUCTURE:

• Is the fee structure specified?
• Is the stated fee fair?
• Are the payment terms fair?