Insist on a work plan from the consultant

Give the consultant sufficient information to get them up to speed

Request that the consultant provide progress reports on the project as follows:

• Outlining the methodology used

• Presenting interim findings and/or progress to date

• Compiling (one or more) preliminary reports

• Final report and evaluation

Communicate regularly with the consultant to review timetables and responsibilities

Establish a process for any necessary changes in the scope of the project

Maintain control over the process and product

If you're unclear, or not pleased with the work in progress - ask for a meeting to address the situation. Discuss your previously agreed-upon objectives, the work to date and/or problems met.

Reach consensus on how to proceed from there

Be prepared for resolution of disputes or changes required by a relationship that sours

Be prepared to promptly pay the consultant's invoices

Evaluate the results of the consultant's work

• Input - What did your organization put into the consulting relationship?
• Process - What is the relationship between the organization and the consultant?
• Output - Did we accomplish what we set out to accomplish?
• Outcomes - Did the work help us move toward the agency's long-range goals?
• Hold a final debriefing to discuss the results of the project