There are no hard or fast rules for deciding, if or when, a business consultant should be engaged to solve a problem. There are, however, a few common situations which suggest that a consultant may be necessary: 

• When management does not have the knowledge and /or skills necessary to solve the problems it has identified.

• When management has the necessary knowledge and skills, but not the time nor the available staff  to solve the problems that have been identified. 

• When management's efforts are unable to produce the necessary, long-term improvements.  

• When management requires an independent third-party opinion, either to confirm a decision or to provide  alternate options. 

• When management feels that things could be better, but does not know what to do or where to go to obtain sound, professional advice. Often, a situation requires that a consultant be retained until in-house capabilities are enhanced by a permanent staff addition.

Last updated on August 26, 2010 by Valderrama Partners