Mr. White has some good comments on this subject and I would urge readers to consider them carefully. However I believe I can add to his article from my own perspective. Back when I worked at large tech companies I developed a jaundiced outlook toward consultants because I saw the damage they too often did. I didn't like consultants. Guess what - now I are one!

From that perspective I think I can provide some hints on how to really use the expertise of an outside consultant while avoiding the damage they can cause if used indiscriminately. Good consultants can help your business if you use them wisely but how you use them is up to you. After all, they often go on to the next client while you are stuck with whatever you decided to do as a result of their visit.

First, understand that consultants have to justify their existence. If they come in and tell you you are doing things correctly you will feel you have wasted your money on them. As a result many will recommend changes whether those changes are needed or not. Personally I will not do that, I believe it is better long term for my business to tell the customer up front that I can't really help, maybe reduce my fee, and go on to the next client. Sadly not all consultants have that attitude.

Second, remember that *you* are the expert in your business and how your company functions. At least you better be if you intend to stay in business. The consultant can bring in other knowledge and perspectives but it is up to you to evaluate his recommendations. Don't be afraid to say, "Thank you very much, but that just doesn't fit here."

Third, while not blindly accepting consultant recommendations, don't be too quick to reject them either. Consider them carefully, after all you paid good money for them. Maybe they don't fit exactly, but you might be able to adapt them to your situation.

Forth, be aware that consultants are human, just like you are. They have misconceptions. They make mistakes. Some follow the latest business fads uncritically. Try to hire the best available but be careful, even the best can make mistakes. Again, you live with the results, they don't.

I remember one company where I worked when a consultant came in and told management to follow the then current fad of inventory reduction. Used judiciously, it would been beneficial. That company did not use it judiciously, instead management swallowed it uncritically and reduced *all* inventory. They even threw away

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