The decisions you make now to renew or restructure your IT infrastructure will have long-lasting, business-critical implications.

You need to be clear about what you’re trying to accomplish, what the options are, which solutions represent the best fit and how to implement them as cost-effectively as possible. A sourcing consultant can bring significant value to the process, helping ensure you get all the information you need to make profitable decisions.

Here are five ways getting expert help can add value to your search:

1. Total resource assessment.

The right solutions aren’t always readily apparent. Value comes from getting what you  need, whether it’s outsourcing, developing and implementing an internal process improvement plan, moving infrastructure services to the cloud or some combination of these options.

An expert sourcing consultant will get your decision-making off to a solid start by helping assess how you’re using IT now and what structure or solution details will give you the biggest boost for the future. You need to retain current service levels without a dip in quality or cost, but you want ongoing continuous improvement and flexibility.

Assessment results will uncover gaps and identify opportunities that match your priorities in terms of service needs, quality improvements, ability to create new revenue streams, and sustain overall business growth. You’ll have real data against which you can compare options as you investigate them, so you can build a strong, smart business case that provides long-term value for your company.

You’ll have key performance indicators you can use to establish SLAs as well as an ongoing monitoring process, so you’ll know you’re getting top value now and going forward.

2. Unbiased advice.

Nowhere is the proverbial third eye more valuable than when strategic thinking is involved. You aren’t just purchasing office supplies or deciding which color to repaint the corporate offices, you need knowledgeable, creative assistance focused on your outcomes.

3. Expert guidance.

A sourcing consultant knows the players in the marketplace, both established and newcomers. That’s important, because there are quite a number of them and they’re not all the same. Each one represents a different type of opportunity for your firm, and you want a close, comfortable fit.

Your consultant won’t just give you a list, you’ll get quality guidance all along your decision path. That includes evaluation of providers and also potential solutions. Vetting potential provider solutions can be exacting. Consultants add value by accurately matching your specific requirements and expectations, including analyzing their potential compatibility with your company’s culture. You’ll have to work with these people for a long time, and the most advantageous working relationship is one based on trust and confidence but also a strong sense of teamwork.

4. Negotiation.

Your legal team is there to ensure contracts are structurally sound. But a sourcing consultant can help you negotiate exactly the right SLAs -- contract details that cover all the bases, including service level and quality performance standards, support, incentives, potential product or service co-development, pricing and payment schedules. They’ll ensure contracts serve you well now and provide the flexibility you’ll need to grow or change.

5. Your bottom line.

In all these ways, a sourcing consultant can assist and enhance your search for new IT solutions. But whatever direction you take, we’re talking about a major investment. The right sourcing consultant will always keep your bottom line top-of-mind as they work with you.

If solutions aren’t entirely cost-effective, they cannot provide the comprehensive value your company requires to remain agile, leading-edge and competitive.

Image Credit: Dell's Official Flickr