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Computer hardware

How to choose the right computer equipment for your business to increase your productivity and efficiency without it costing the earth.

Business software

Business software helps you complete a range of tasks. Choose the right software, provide support and train your staff with our introduction.

The internet

It is highly likely that you depend on the internet for some aspects of your business. Find out how you can use the internet more effectively.

Communications

Good communication with customers, partners and suppliers is vital for business success. This summary explores business communication methods.

IT security

How would you cope if your IT system failed or was breached? We cover the main IT security issues and how to protect against them.

Buy and manage IT

Good IT management can help you choose, use and implement IT. Our overview helps you manage IT in a way that maximises the return on your investment.

IT support

IT support is vital if you rely on your IT system. But how can you set up an effective safety net in case things go wrong? We explore the options.

Staff and IT training

Getting the right IT is just the first step. Appropriate training, policies and working practices can help you maximise return on your IT investment.

Using consultants - checklist

Using a consultant can be a great way to get a project rolling or to bring in expert help. We explain how to get the best from your consultant.

  • Define the project and the result you are aiming for; confirm how this will contribute to your overall business objectives.
  • Consider whether you have (or should acquire) the in-house skills to carry out part or all of the project.
  • Discuss the project with relevant employees; ask for suggestions and get their agreement to involving a consultant.
  • Ask your local business support organisation, trade association or relevant body to recommend a list of suitable consultants with experience of similar projects.
  • Choose a suitably skilled and experienced consultant from your shortlist and ask for a preliminary proposal based on your brief. Amend the brief to incorporate any valid suggestions.
  • Clarify roles and responsibilities for the consultant, employees and any other contractors involved.
  • Identify key objectives; aim for specific, measurable targets but leave room for the consultant to suggest alternatives.
  • Prepare an outline brief summarising the project, objectives, budget, timescales and in-house resources available to the consultant.
  • Clarify any constraints on the consultant: for example, budget, restrictions on disclosing confidential information or contacting customers.
  • Agree a project schedule, including project completion and interim milestones; negotiate exit clauses for sub-standard performance.
  • Negotiate fees; consider success fees or a fixed fee and clarify exactly how fees will be earned, when they will become payable and how any expenses will be handled.
  • Brief employees involved in the project; ensure they fulfil their responsibilities to maximise the consultant's effectiveness.
  • Provide access to any necessary in-house information and resources.
  • Maintain regular contact with the consultant; look for evidence of the work, monitor costs and review the project at each milestone.
  • Watch for warning signs of any problems: for example, sub-standard work, missed deadlines or poor communication from the consultant, or low morale among the project team.
  • Check that objectives have been met to the agreed standards before signing off any work or overall project completion.

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