Is information technology consuming an ever-larger chunk of your company’s budget? Are you adding new pieces of hardware, staying up to date on your software, and still feeling like you’re falling behind? Is your IT sales person pushing you to acquire yet more bells and whistles you aren’t sure about?

Before you load up on additional technological innovations, consider getting advice from a trusted professional. Hire an IT consultant.

Blending technical knowledge with business skills, a quality IT consultant advises corporate clients about how technology can relieve organizational pain and meet company objectives. IT consultants keep up with industry trends, know how to apply technology to benefit your company, and understand the importance of sticking to a budget.

What an IT Consultant Is Not

Some business professionals think of IT consultants as sales people with a different title. But this isn’t accurate.

• An IT consultant is not a sales person. Instead, he or she is a partner.
• An IT consultant is not a full-time employee who can run your IT program in perpetuity. Although he or she can augment regular staff, a typical IT consultant is a solutions-based worker. They’re here today and gone tomorrow, and that’s a good thing for your business.
• An IT consultant is not a tech-wizard who can solve every problem. He or she is a specialized professional who will likely not be able to repair your new iPhone, antiquated server, or digital copier while putting together your company’s technological plan.

What an IT Consultant Is

An IT consultant is more than an advice-giver though. He or she can provide information, offer solutions, conduct diagnoses of a problem, provide information, and assist in implementing new technologies.

• An IT consultant is a hard-working firefighter. He or she can help you handle a technological crisis with minimal drama and expense.
• An IT consultant is conversant with new and old technologies. He or she isn’t trying to sell you the latest upgrade but help you find the right product for your company.
• An IT consultant is a teacher. At the conclusion of the consulting contract, you should have learned what technology you need, understand how to use it to your business’ benefit, and feel comfortable authorizing specific purchases from the tech budget.

What an IT Consultant Can Do for Your Business

Why should you hire an IT consultant?

• An IT consultant can mitigate the confusion of an aggressive sales pitch and help your organization set realistic expectations on new software and hardware roll outs.
• IT consultants can also save your business money. A full-service consulting firm can scale up or down to meet your needs and fit its recommendations within the strictures of nearly any budget.

Acquiring the hardware and software required to run your business effectively and efficiently can be confusing. Make it easy and affordable by hiring an IT consultant.