180 Systems_ The Value of Independent Consulting Services (2)

The Value of Independent Consulting Services

| 389 Comments | Michael Burns

Most organizations don’t use independent consulting services to help with the selection of a new system. They may think they have the expertise already and that independent consultants will add unnecessary costs. Although we are independent in terms of vendor neutrality, we are clearly not independent in recommending independent consultants. However, we think that there is a misconception about the value independent consultants provide, which is the reason for writing this article.

Save you time

We have a proven methodology with the knowledge, templates and processes that makes the selection process go relatively quickly. Time delays occur while waiting for vendors to respond to an RFP or prepare for demonstrations. We don’t waste anyone’s time on standard functionality, which is something most organizations don’t know about. We provide a not-to-exceed fee, so there are no surprises in costs other than going under budget.

Mitigate risks in not defining scope well

The biggest cause for implementation problems and cost overruns is not defining scope well. Our methodology will ensure that scope is defined in detail and vendors will be evaluated based on their ability meet detailed requirements.

Mitigate risk of not choosing the right system and implementer

We know the systems that should be considered which include not just the most well-known ones. We also know the implementers, and choosing the right one is just as important as choosing the right system.

Mitigate Change Management risks

Our process includes aligning senior management and staff in accepting the changes that will occur. This is partly done with senior management by including requirements that help a company achieve its critical success factors. It is done with staff by getting their input throughout the process.

Save you money in maximizing the vendor discount and improving contract terms

We know how far to push the vendors in getting the maximum discount and in reducing fees in subsequent years by limiting price increases. Our fees are usually more than offset by higher discounts.

Bottom Line

Our value is not just in saving time and money in the selection process. Our primary value is in the successful selection and implementation of a new system.

Michael Burns

Written by Michael Burns

Michael Burns is both founder and president of 180 Systems. Michael has provided consulting services to a wide variety of industries including manufacturing, construction, financial, distribution, retail, third-party logistics, professional services, real estate and not-for-profit organizations. Michael is a Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) and is certified as a PMP (Project Manager Professional) and as a Certified Information Technology Professional (CITP).

Michael has written extensively for a number of professional magazines and spoken at IT conferences. He was also a part-time professor at University of Toronto and Toronto Metropolitan University (formerly Ryerson). Michael’s experience also includes software development, project management and accounting.

389 thoughts on “The Value of Independent Consulting Services”

  6. I feel this is one of the so much important info for me. And i am happy reading your article.

    But should observation on some normal issues, The site taste is ideal, the articles
    is actually great : D. Just right task, cheers

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