Smart Consulting Sourcing

Think spend analysis is just adding up invoices? Think again. In this episode of Quick Takes on Smart Consulting Sourcing, Hélène Lafitte, CEO of Consulting Quest, breaks down why real spend analysis is about insight; not just data. She shares five smart questions every procurement leader should ask to uncover inefficiencies, align suppliers with project needs, and boost the ROI of consulting spend.   If you want to stop reacting and start optimizing, this is your playbook. Tune in now and turn your consulting data into a strategic advantage!

Change management might not be in your procurement job description, but it should be. In this Quick Takes on Smart Consulting Sourcing episode, Hélène Lafitte explains why procurement professionals play a critical role in setting consulting projects up for success. From spotting misalignment early to designing collaboration into the process, Hélène shows how procurement can act as a catalyst for change even before the consultants are hired.   Tune in to discover how change fluency can make you a smarter, more strategic sourcing leader. Don't miss this one!

A consulting agreement might not be flashy — but it's one of the most critical tools in your consulting procurement arsenal. In this episode of Quick Takes on Smart Consulting Sourcing, Hélène Lafitte, CEO of Consulting Quest, breaks down the seven must-have elements every procurement pro should scrutinize before signing a consulting contract. From scope clarity and payment terms to IP rights and termination clauses, she highlights how a well-crafted agreement sets the stage for project success — and protects your organization from costly surprises.   Don't miss this power-packed episode because smarter contracts mean smarter sourcing. Tune in now!

In this thought-provoking episode of Smart Consulting Sourcing, Helene Lafitte unpacks a question that every organization faces but few answer strategically: should you handle a consulting project in-house or bring in external experts?   With humor, clarity, and a practical five-pillar framework, Helene guides you through the complexities of the make-or-buy decision—looking beyond cost to consider capability, strategic value, and long-term impact.   If you're tired of defaulting to habit and ready to treat consulting as a true strategic lever, this episode is a must-listen. Don't miss it—your next big project might just depend on it.

Should you invest in an internal consulting team? In this episode of Quick Takes with Smart Consulting Sourcing, Hélène Lafitte, CEO of Consulting Quest, breaks down the strategic considerations behind this crucial decision. From analyzing consulting spend to defining a clear team mandate, she explains why internal consulting is about more than just cutting costs; it's about driving long-term efficiency, retaining knowledge, and optimizing ROI.   Discover when to build in-house expertise, when to rely on external consultants, and how to ensure your internal team aligns with broader business goals. Don't miss this quick but insightful episode to smarter consulting decisions!

Companies spend billions on external consultants, but is there a better way? In this episode of Smart Consulting Sourcing, Hélène Lafitte, CEO of Consulting Quest, explores the growing trend of Internal Consulting Groups and how they can serve as a powerful strategic asset. Far from being just a cost-cutting measure, internal consulting helps organizations retain knowledge, develop future leaders, and optimize consulting spend without sacrificing expertise.   Discover how leading companies like Siemens and BASF have leveraged internal teams to drive transformation and why striking the right balance between internal and external consultants is key. Don't miss this insightful episode—tune in now and rethink how your organization approaches consulting!

Change management is crucial in any procurement transformation, but when it comes to consulting, it takes on a whole new level of complexity. In this episode of QuickTakes with Smart Consulting Sourcing, Hélène Lafitte, CEO of Consulting Quest, explores why change management in consulting procurement is fundamentally different. From the intangibility of consulting services to the high-level stakeholder sensitivities, she unpacks the unique challenges and shares key strategies to ensure success.   If you want to drive real impact in consulting procurement, understanding these nuances is essential. Tune in now for expert insights that will help you navigate change with confidence!

Digitalizing consulting procurement offers immense potential—efficiency, transparency, and smarter decision-making. But without the right approach, organizations can fall into common traps that hinder progress.   In this episode of Smart Consulting Sourcing, Hélène Lafitte, CEO of Consulting Quest, breaks down the five biggest pitfalls companies face when implementing digital procurement solutions. From mistaking tools for the solution to ignoring stakeholder buy-in and overcomplicating the process, she shares actionable strategies to ensure a smooth and successful transformation.   Don't let digitalization become a roadblock instead of an enabler. Tune in now to discover how to avoid these pitfalls and unlock the full potential of your consulting procurement!

In today's fast-paced digital world, effective collaboration between procurement and business lines is no longer a luxury—it's a necessity. In this episode of Quick Takes with Smart Consulting Sourcing, Hélène Lafitte, CEO of Consulting Quest, unpacks how organizations can break down silos and foster seamless collaboration. From understanding each other's priorities to leveraging digital tools for transparency, she shares actionable strategies to build trust and co-create processes that drive impact.   Don't miss this insightful video on how to align procurement and business teams for smarter consulting decisions. Tune in now and start transforming your approach to collaboration!

Digital transformation isn't just about flashy new tools—it's about redefining how we work. In this episode of Smart Consulting Sourcing, Helene Lafitte, CEO of Consulting Quest, dives deep into the pivotal role of change management in digital procurement transformation. From real-world challenges like misaligned teams to actionable strategies for driving success, Helene breaks down why transformation in consulting procurement requires more than technology—it demands a mindset shift and strategic alignment across the board. Don't miss this insightful episode that uncovers the secrets to unlocking the full potential of your consulting spend. Tune in now and start transforming smarter!

In the world of procurement, centralised vs. decentralised procurement structures is one of the most debated topics. Should you centralize your consulting procurement? Opt for a decentralised approach? Or is the ideal solution a balanced hybrid? There's no one-size-fits-all answer—but in this episode of Smart Consulting Sourcing, Helene dives deep into these concepts to help you determine which structure best suits your organisation. She explores what centralised and decentralised procurement structures look like, how they influence your organisation's ability to maximise value from consulting, and how to organize your consulting procurement for optimal results. Don't miss it. Tune in.

We're back with another Q&A episode of the Smart Consulting Sourcing Podcast! Today, we're tackling a critical topic: the impact of early procurement involvement in consulting projects.   Ever wondered how involving procurement right from the start can transform your consulting outcomes? What strategies can help align stakeholders effectively? And how do you overcome the common challenges of gaining buy-in from senior executives?   If you're ready to elevate your consulting game and maximize the value of your investments, Helene is here with insights and strategies you won't want to miss. Let's jump right in!

When it comes to optimizing consulting spend, you're not just fine-tuning a few processes—you're fundamentally shifting how your organization selects and manages consulting services. And let's be honest, that kind of change often faces resistance, especially from the top. To succeed, you need everyone on board, from procurement to senior leadership.   At Consulting Quest, we rely on John Kotter's 8 Steps for Leading Change, a proven framework to ensure smooth transitions and lasting success. Optimizing consulting spend touches every part of your organization, so getting buy-in, communicating clearly, and embedding new practices is essential. In this episode of Smart Consulting Sourcing Podcast, your host Helene will take you through how we use Kotter's model to help organizations like yours get the most out of their consulting spend. Tune in!

Welcome to the Smart Consulting Sourcing Podcast's LIVE Q&A session! Today, we're diving into some of the most pressing questions about consulting sourcing. What's the first step in choosing the right consulting project? How do you weigh cost versus value when selecting consultants? Should you go with boutique firms or stick to the big players? If you're looking to invest wisely in expertise and get the most out of that investment, you're in the right place. This session is packed with the advice you need! Tune in.

In this episode of Smart Consulting Sourcing podcast, your favourite host, Helene, dives into the fascinating world of specialised and niche consulting—a trend that's revolutionizing how businesses tackle their most pressing challenges. Think of niche consultants as your business's expert surgeons: for general health, you consult your GP, but for a heart condition, you want a cardiac specialist.   Similarly, as your challenges grow in complexity, so does the need for tailored expertise. From cybersecurity to sustainability, specialized consultants are equipped with the deep knowledge required to provide the precise solutions you need. Tune in to discover how to choose the right specialist for your unique business needs!

In this exciting new episode, we're launching a fresh segment that's sure to become a staple in your listening routine—a live monthly Q&A session. Each month, we'll tackle a hot topic and answer the questions that matter most to you. This week, we're kicking things off with a deep dive into a subject that every consultant or procurement professional faces sooner or later: negotiations. Today's session is all about preparation. Specifically, how do you gear up for negotiating a consulting agreement? Are the strategies the same as in any other negotiation, or do consulting services require a unique approach? As we explore this foundational question, we'll uncover the key factors that set consulting negotiations apart—factors you can leverage to secure the best outcomes for your business. Whether you're a seasoned negotiator or stepping into these discussions for the first time, today's episode will sharpen your negotiation edge. Listen in and discover the key insights into consulting agreements that could be the deciding factor in your next deal.

In the ever-evolving landscape of business, the role of consulting services has never been more pivotal. For Strategy, Finance, and Procurement Executives, understanding the nuanced overlap between these domains is essential. It is this very overlap that can spell the difference between a consulting project that delivers transformative value and one that merely scratches the surface. In this episode of our Smart Consulting Sourcing podcast, your host, Helene delves into this critical topic, offering a treasure trove of actionable insights designed to enhance your consulting sourcing processes. Tune in. Don't miss it.

When it comes to navigating the intricate world of consulting, the traditional mindset of price-slashing and hard-nosed bargaining often falls flat. Consulting isn't just another commodity; it demands a sophisticated approach where value and cost optimization go hand in hand. In this episode of Smar Consulting Sourcing podcast, your host Helene offers profound insights that could transform how organizations engage with consulting firms. This nuanced strategy not only ensures better deals but also fosters a productive and positive relationship with consulting firms, ultimately driving greater success for all parties involved.

We will delve into a crucial aspect that every business executive, whether you're in procurement, strategy, finance, or sitting in the C-suite, needs to master: the art of scoping your consulting projects. Proper scoping isn't just about controlling costs—it's about maximizing the value each consulting engagement brings to your organization. Scoping your consulting projects is not just a preliminary step before issuing an RFP; it's a dynamic tool that plays a crucial role throughout the entire buying process. Surprisingly, scoping remains relevant even after a project has started. It is essential for managing change orders and ensuring project adaptability. In this episode of the Smart Consulting Sourcing Podcast, Helene unveils some of the secret weapons we use at Consulting Quest to harness the full power of scoping. Join us on the Smart Consulting Sourcing Podcast, where Helene explores how to procure, utilize, and manage consulting services as strategic investments. Don't miss it!

Optimizing consulting costs is the top priority for companies investing in consulting services. However, at Consulting Quest, we don't merely focus on cost-cutting; we prioritize obtaining the best value for your investment. We have developed a comprehensive framework that considers both scoping and pricing levers to ensure that every dollar you invest in consulting delivers maximum impact. In this episode of the Smart Consulting Sourcing podcast, your host, Helene, introduces Consulting Quest's holistic approach to cost optimization, which extends beyond consulting fees. Join us as Helene breaks down the key components of our framework, discusses why it is effective, and explores the strategies and tactics you can implement to unlock value and drive success in your consulting engagements.

Welcome to another episode of the Smart Consulting Sourcing podcast, where your favourite host, Helene, delves into the nitty-gritty of consulting sourcing, and today she's tackling a critical aspect, demand management. Think of demand management as your trusted decision-making partner. It's there to ensure you're putting your resources where they truly count – on the projects that will drive tangible value for your organization. In simpler terms, it's about making smart choices with your consulting budget. In this episode, Helene will explore why demand management is crucial for consulting procurement. She'll uncover how effective demand management can provide organizations with the foresight they need. Because having that foresight can be the difference between strategic success and playing catch-up with reactive damage control. So, grab your headphones and tune in. Trust us, you won't want to miss this!

Consulting isn't just a line-item expense; it's a strategic investment poised to propel organizations toward unprecedented growth and efficiency. By balancing cost considerations with strategic alignment and reinvesting savings wisely, we can unlock the transformative power of consulting and chart a course toward enduring success. In this episode of the Smart Consulting Sourcing podcast, we're delving into five key ways that cost savings from consulting can benefit companies. Join your host, Helene, as she explores the connections between cost, value, and how they fuel organizational transformation. Discover how navigating this terrain wisely can reshape the future trajectory of your company.

In the realm of business strategy, the significance of cost savings cannot be overstated. Today, we kick off 'Decoding Cost Savings in Consulting,' a series that will shed light on this important topic. We aim to make understanding savings in consulting simple yet essential for success. Effective consulting procurement isn't just about cutting costs; it's about ensuring that every dollar spent translates into tangible organizational benefits. From demand management to negotiating prices, we'll dissect the strategies that lead to genuine value. Join us as we shift the focus from immediate savings to long-term gains. By adopting a holistic view of value, we empower you to make informed decisions that align with your organization's overarching objectives. Don't miss out on the opportunity to gain invaluable insights into the art of smart spending in consulting. Tune in and embark on a journey towards a more prosperous and strategic approach to procurement.

In this episode of the Smart Consulting Sourcing podcast, your host, Helene, dives into a topic that's essential but often misunderstood in the world of consulting: the cost of revenue. Think of it like the Cost of Goods Sold in other industries, but instead of physical products, we're talking about the brainpower, time, and expertise of consultants. So, the cost of revenue covers everything it takes to get those brilliant minds working on your project. We're delving into what exactly makes consulting firms financially tick. Is the cost structure as straightforward as it seems? What's the formula for profitability here? And most importantly, what's truly crucial in negotiations—is it focusing on the consultants' margin, or is it the measurable value you get from their expertise? Understanding these inner workings can give you a real edge in negotiating consulting fees effectively. Don't miss out on this insightful discussion!

When embarking on a new project, finding the right fee structure can significantly enhance your company's value. The optimal approach depends on factors such as the project's essence, the nature of deliverables, the surrounding context, and your flexibility with fees, along with the level of commitment you seek from your consulting partner. Value-sharing emerges as a strategic choice when aiming for high expectations, expecting consultants to exceed standard norms. This model is particularly beneficial for certain types of projects, clients and consulting firms. However, it also comes with its challenges. Success with this model hinges on clear objectives, effective communication, and mutual trust between clients and consultants. In this episode of the Smart Consulting Sourcing podcast, Helene explores these questions and more. Tune in for valuable insights.

You might think that figuring out how much a consulting project will cost is as simple as picking a price tag off a shelf. But in reality, it's much more complicated than that. Even when fee structures are clearly laid out, two projects that seem identical on paper can end up with very different cost estimates. Why does this happen? Well, there are a lot of different factors that affect the final number you see on a proposal. Today, we're going to really dig into what influences consulting fees, going beyond just the basics. In today's episode of Smart Consulting Sourcing, aptly titled "Decoding Consulting Prices," your favorite host, Helene delves deep into the heart of what truly shapes consulting fees, providing invaluable insights for both seasoned professionals and newcomers alike. Helene gives listeners the information and tools they need to make smart choices when hiring consulting services. In an industry where getting good value is really important, knowing what's really behind the numbers isn't just a skill—it's a big advantage. So, don't miss the episode. Tune in.

In the world of business, consulting services play a pivotal role in shaping strategies, driving innovation, and solving complex problems. However, the question of how to negotiate win-win deal with consultants while ensuring value remains a constant challenge for clients.   In this episode of Smart Consulting Sourcing podcast, your favorite host Helene delves deep into this issue, exploring various pricing models and their implications. Tune in.

Stepping into the consulting market can feel like navigating a labyrinth. With a myriad of firms boasting various services, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. But fear not, dear listeners, for in today's episode of Smart Consulting Sourcing podcast, we're diving headfirst into the depths of asymmetrical information and emerging victorious. Picture this: you're faced with a sea of consulting firms, each vying for your attention with promises of excellence. How do you separate the wheat from the chaff? Helene, your trusty host, is here to guide you through the fog of uncertainty. It all starts with knowledge. But knowledge alone isn't enough. It's about leveraging that knowledge to your advantage. And let's not forget the importance of performance measurement. Armed with these weapons, you'll navigate the maze of asymmetrical information with confidence and emerge victorious on the other side. Tune in to Smart Consulting Sourcing Podcast for more insights and inspiration on your path to success.

Asymmetrical information isn't just an abstract concept relegated to economics textbooks; it's a pivotal notion that shapes real-world market dynamics. Join your trusted host, Helene, on the latest episode of the Smart Consulting Sourcing podcast, where we delve deep into the application of this theory in the realm of consulting procurement.   Discover how the disparity in information can tilt the playing field, leading clients to either overspend on unnecessary services or fall short of their desired outcomes due to underspending. In an ever-evolving landscape of consulting procurement, where decisions can make or break strategic endeavors, it's imperative for clients to navigate through the haze of asymmetrical information.   Tune in to gain invaluable insights into overcoming this obstacle and making informed choices that drive operational excellence amidst the complexities of consulting procurement.

In the fast-paced world of business, organizations often turn to consulting services to navigate complex challenges, drive innovation, and achieve strategic goals. Yet, amidst the myriad of consultants and projects, how can businesses ensure they are truly maximizing the value of these engagements? Navigating the complexity of evaluating consulting value requires more than just a casual approach. It calls for a combination of strategic planning, structured evaluation, and a commitment to continuous improvement. Join us on this episode of our Smart Consulting Sourcing podcast as we embark on this thrilling expedition. Delve into expert insights, uncover practical tips, and unearth hidden strategies. Tune in.

Trusting the consultants involved in your projects can transform the entire consulting experience, making it smoother, more collaborative, and ultimately ensuring the effective application of recommendations. But why does trust wield such immense power in consulting? Join your favorite host, Helene, on the Smart Consulting Sourcing Podcast, as she delves deep into the captivating psychology of trust. Explore topics ranging from the pivotal Importance of Trust in Consulting to strategies for identifying consultants you can rely on. Discover the role of emotional connections and interpersonal relations in project success, and embark on a fascinating exploration of human psychology as the ultimate key to unlocking success. Trust us, you won't want to miss this enlightening episode. Tune in now!

Businesses are waking up to the fact that a top-notch indirect procurement game can be a differentiator for success. It's not just a cost center anymore; it's a strategic player in the company's victory. But let's ditch the old-school thinking of direct versus indirect procurement. It's time to see it as a choice between strategic and non-strategic buys. Some direct stuff isn't that strategic, and surprise, some indirect buys are real game-changers. And if we zoom in on consulting – now that's the secret weapon. Aligning your consulting spend with the big picture strategy is where the real power lies. It's not just about hiring consultants; it's about picking projects that move the needle. To sum it up, playing the procurement game strategically is a must. It challenges the old rules, pushes for teamwork, embraces tech, nurtures strong supplier ties, and rolls with the punches in this crazy business world. It's the winning playbook for businesses aiming for long-term success in the modern arena. Don't miss out on these insights; Helene breaks it all down in this episode – the game-changer you need for a winning strategy!

When you cook up a storm in the kitchen, everyone wants to know about the ingredients, right? But there's more to the culinary magic than just spices – it's the hidden elements that play a crucial role. Think of the pots and pans, the table decoration -- all of them quietly contribute to the whole gastronomic experience and hey, don't forget that cookbook on your shelf – it's the one that gave you the recipe idea in the first place! But when we enjoy a meal, we tend to overlook these behind-the-scenes players, focusing more on the ingredients. Procurement works the same way with direct (buying ingredients for your product) and indirect (getting stuff that supports your business). Even though indirect procurement doesn't get the same attention as the direct side, it's a crucial part of any organization's strategy. While indirect procurement may not grab headlines like direct procurement, it's a vital part of any organization's strategy. It requires a different approach, a keen eye for detail, and an understanding of the broader business context. In this Smart Consulting Sourcing podcast episode, Helene explains the strategic nature of both direct and indirect procurement and shares insights about their evolving landscape to empower clients for procurement optimization. Don't miss it.

Welcome back to another captivating episode of your favorite Smart Consulting Sourcing podcast, where your host Helene leads you through the dynamic realm of consulting, meticulously unraveling the ever-evolving Consulting Value Chain. Delve into how consulting firms are adjusting to these transformations and discern the implications for you, the client. Guess what? Amidst this swiftly changing landscape, you have the opportunity to leverage the advantages that accompany these shifts. Whether it's by engaging with boutique firms for their specialized knowledge or by demanding more value from your traditional consulting partnerships, the power is shifting into your hands. Therefore, if you aim to adeptly procure consulting services, ensuring each dollar invested yields the anticipated impact, just stay tuned. Don't miss this episode.

In our latest podcast episode, Helene is diving into a topic that's been buzzing around the consulting world for quite some time – the much-talked-about disruption in the consulting industry, especially with the advent of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Trust me, this is a conversation you don't want to miss! We've been hearing predictions about the consulting sector undergoing a seismic shift due to emerging companies and innovative solutions. The question is, has this dramatic change really happened? Helene is peeling back the layers to uncover the truth behind these predictions and the actual state of disruption (or lack thereof) in consulting. And of course, she talks about AI – the biggest headline-grabber. Is it really that fear-inducing, job-replacing monster that it is often portrayed as? Let's find out the truth about AI in consulting in this episode.  So, gear up for a deep dive into this fascinating topic in our latest podcast episode. Join Helene as she explores the evolving consulting value chain and its implications for clients. Your thoughts and feedback are always welcome, so don't hesitate to connect and share your perspectives.

Numbers tell a compelling tale of a vast market, estimated at $300 billion, showcasing resilience with a Compound Annual Growth Rate poised to surpass $400 billion by 2025. Welcome to the big, vast consulting universe! What fuels this growth? The digital revolution, emerging markets, and global events like the COVID-19 pandemic and geopolitical conflicts—all reshaping the consulting landscape, demanding strategic planning, risk management, and crisis response expertise. In this episode of Smart Consulting Sourcing podcast, Join Helene, as she unravels the intricacies of the consulting market, offering insights that will empower you to navigate its dynamic waves. Whether you're a procurement professional, a business leader, or simply curious about the consulting world, this episode promises a voyage into a world where strategy meets innovation, and decisions shape destinies. Tune in and be prepared to navigate the heart of the consulting market successfully. The adventure awaits—let's set sail together!

Hey there, podcast listeners! Welcome to another episode where we're diving deep into the evolutionary journey of the consulting industry. You might be wondering, why bother with the history of consulting? Well, in a world where consultants seem to be around every corner, influencing businesses left and right, knowing where this all began not only gives us a deeper appreciation of its role but also offers insights into how it might evolve in the future. So, join Helene on this journey as she explores how the consulting industry has been like a chameleon, adapting to the needs of businesses as they shimmy through the decades. These insights, like a compass, will guide you to understand where the industry might be headed and what it'll look like in the coming decades. Tune in, and let's embark on this historical joyride together!

In the previous episode, we delved into the intricacies of four essential business capabilities: Strategy, Operations, Finance & Risk, and Sales & Marketing. These pillars are fundamental in steering organizations toward success. In today's episode, we explored the key pillars of modern business: Human Capital, Tech, and R&D. Picture a workplace not just hiring but nurturing talent to create a destination! Tech is more than just an online presence; it's a dynamic playground. R&D? It's not just labs; it's the heart of innovation. Discover versatile tools like Communication and ESG – the Swiss Army knives for businesses. A must-listen for those curious about how consulting powers success! Learn how consulting firms align with these competencies, creating harmony and guiding companies through the financial maze. Planning consulting services? This episode is your insightful guide to navigate the business world.

In this episode, Helene has embarked on a journey through the intricate world of consulting capabilities. From the strategic North Star to the heart of business operations, and from finance & risk as the guardians of integrity to sales and marketing as the company's rockstar, she has explored how consulting brings the wind to your business sails. If seven high-level competencies are paramount for any thriving organization, consulting firms mirror these business functions of their client organizations through their capabilities. It's an attempt to classify consulting offerings in the same manner one might organize their bookshelf – by theme, relevance, and genre. Except here, it's about aligning services with organizational needs. Remember, in the modern business symphony, every consulting capability plays its unique tune, creating a harmonious ensemble that helps companies navigate the complex financial labyrinth and emerge victorious. Tune in for great insights.  

In this episode, we're diving deep into the world of consulting and asking the age-old question, "What is consulting?" "What really defines it?" In a nutshell, consulting is like a blend of expert advice, strategic planning, and meticulous execution – all in the name of supercharging an organization's success. As the world of consulting keeps on evolving, so does the way we go about getting consulting services. It's not just about pinching pennies anymore; it's about looking at the bigger, more impactful picture. So, whether you're gearing up for a consulting project or knee-deep in one, you'll want to hear what Helene has to say in this episode. We're breaking down what consulting is all about, exploring the different aspects of consulting projects, looking at the types of assignments, and more. In a nutshell, we're dissecting the anatomy of a management consulting project, so you'll know exactly what to expect throughout the journey. Whether you're just starting or already in the thick of things, this episode will be your trusty guide. Don't miss out – let's get to the heart of your consulting project!

Hey there, and welcome back to the grand finale of our podcast series, "How to Buy Consulting Services Like a Pro. "Over the past few episodes, we've delved into the intricate world of consulting procurement, exploring the nooks and crannies of this ever-evolving landscape. But today, we're here to talk about the real heart of the matter - the value of consulting. Buying consulting services like a pro is not about saving a few dollars; it's about investing in potential, and those savings are a delightful byproduct. You see, there's a shift happening in the world of procurement. Mature organizations are no longer just looking at immediate costs; they're looking at the bigger picture. They're evaluating the entire value equation when it comes to consulting. In this final episode, your favorite host Helene, will guide you through how you can enhance this value creation throughout the procurement process. It's all about seeing the bigger picture and making sure every step you take adds value to your organization's grand vision. So, get ready to uncover the true value that goes beyond the bottom line. Tune in!

In the world of consulting, we often talk about how to start a project, manage it, and keep it on the right track. But what about when things don't go as planned? That's where our latest episode of "How to Buy Consulting Like a Pro” steps in, ready to reveal how to masterfully wrap up a consulting project with style and grace. In this episode, your wonderful host, Helene covers everything from handling unexpected curveballs, and dealing with underperforming consultants, to the nitty-gritty of budgeting and payments. So, whether you're facing an unforeseen twist in your project, or your consultants are performing a disappearing act, we've got the strategies to help you pull off a smooth exit. This is where you learn how to terminate consulting projects with confidence and professionalism, ensuring that when the curtain falls, it's on a high note.

As we approach the final phase of our journey on how to "Buy consulting services like a pro," today, we will delve into the critical topic of preparing for the transition when the consultants depart. Let us tell you that this is one of the most crucial steps in securing the impact of your project. You might wonder why. Well, projects are inherently temporary, and consultants won't be there forever to support you at every step. Think of it as a child's journey toward independence, acquiring the skills to live a life without perpetual reliance on parents for support. Similarly, you must have a plan in place for the inevitable moment when your consultants bid farewell. From this point forward, you must learn to function without depending on the expertise and support of the consultants. In this journey toward independence, procurement plays a pivotal role in ensuring a smooth transition and preserving the project's legacy. Join Helene in this engaging episode as she reveals how to prepare for this transition.  

We're now entering the final stage of our journey on how to "Buy consulting services like a pro." Today, we'll delve into managing project performance and daily operations. Picture this: You're the captain of a consulting project ship, and your consultants are your crew of superheroes. You've got the right team, you've set sail, but now what? That's where this episode comes in. In this episode, Helene, your trusty host, takes you on an exciting journey into the world of consulting project management. Steering Committees, performance, and teamwork are the stars of the show. Helene reminds us to keep that committee informed, courageously confront low performance, and be ready to reshuffle the consulting team if the fit isn't perfect. But remember, collaboration is the secret sauce! Craft your dream team, wield your time wisely, and let your project soar. So, gear up and get ready to conquer the consulting world, project by project!

Effective project management is imperative for the success of your consulting project. Therefore, as a client, it's crucial to understand the intricacies involved in managing consulting projects. When you buy a car, you simply place an order and wait for the finished product to be delivered. There's no need to inspect the production line or be involved in the manufacturing process. However, when it comes to consulting services, the dynamics are quite different. Managing the project becomes a crucial aspect of the process if you want to achieve the desired results. In today's episode of your favorite podcast series, "How to Buy Consulting Like a Pro," Helene delved into the world of managing consulting projects. By managing consulting projects in a structured and organized manner, executives can ensure that projects are completed on time, within budget, and with high levels of quality and client satisfaction. So, if you are working with consultants, these lessons are your secret sauce for success. Tune in, and let's master this art together!

In the dynamic consulting world, success begins with the artful creation of a consulting agreement. But you know what? Crafting the perfect consulting agreement isn't just about paperwork; it's a masterstroke of strategy, protection, and securing your path to triumph. In the realm of consulting, where every decision carries weight, this foundational document wields unparalleled influence. In this episode of our fan-favourite series, "How to purchase consulting services like a pro," your delightful host, Helene, takes you on a journey deep into the heart of this all-important masterpiece. Tune in to uncover the secrets of crafting that perfect agreement – one that not only sets crystal-clear expectations but also shields your interests and lays the groundwork for a consulting project that exceeds all expectations.

Welcome to a brand-new episode of the Smart Consulting Sourcing podcast. Over previous episodes, we've shared multiple aspects of procuring consulting services, from crafting the perfect RFP to evaluating proposals and negotiating with shortlisted firms. In today's episode, we reach the climax where visions become reality—the consulting agreement. Get ready to dive into the process of shaping an agreement that sets the stage for a fruitful partnership.   In this episode, your favorite host, Helene, leaves no stone unturned as she explores every facet of this process, from defining project scopes and deliverables to establishing key performance indicators and contractual obligations. As you already know, the mission of this episode is to ensure that you extract the absolute best from your consulting project. Tune in.

Providing feedback to consultants whose proposals fell short is a wise practice. It's a win-win for both parties. Why? Well, reputable consulting firms with the expertise you seek take feedback seriously. When you share your insights, they use that valuable input to address previous shortcomings, increasing their chances of success in future bids. This process is vital for their growth and continued success.   But the question remains: how can you effectively communicate your feedback? Breaking the news of rejection is never easy, and nobody enjoys being on the receiving end. The key is to go beyond the simple "win or lose" announcement. Instead, emphasize their strengths, point out areas for improvement, and suggest specific actions they could have taken to enhance their prospects.   Are you eager to discover how to provide a comprehensive evaluation of a proposal? Join Helene in this episode as she unveils the power of feedback as a tool for growth and collaboration. Learn how to leverage this valuable resource to your advantage.

Welcome back to another power-packed episode of Smart Consulting Sourcing, your ultimate guide to mastering the art of buying consulting services like a pro. Today, we delve into the realm of negotiation—a force of great power and potential. As Sun Tzu famously said, "Every battle is won before it's ever fought." In our previous episode, we laid the groundwork for successful negotiations, and now, we take it a step further. Get ready to harness the game-changing concepts of BATNA and ZOPA, guiding you like a seasoned captain navigating uncharted waters. Let's uncover the treasure trove of savings opportunities within consulting proposals, making sure you secure the best agreements with your consultants. Let's begin this exciting journey to master negotiation!

Negotiation is like a thrilling dance of give-and-take. The process entails strategies for securing the best deal. If the consulting agreement is your vital weapon to ensure that you get the expected value from the project, an effective negotiation process is your key to reaching the winning agreement. Now here's the catch - you should not dive into the negotiation unprepared.   Before hitting the negotiation table, you need to do your homework. This episode of our podcast series, "How to Buy Consulting Like a Pro," helps you unleash your negotiation power with expert tips and examples from real-world scenarios. Learn from none other than Helene Laffitte, the consulting sourcing expert and the wonderful host of your favourite Smart Consulting Sourcing podcast series. Tune in.

In our "How to Buy Consulting Like a Pro" series, we've dived into the nitty-gritty of evaluating consulting proposals. But now, friends, we've hit the mother of all crossroads: the price. If evaluating proposals is a brain-teasing puzzle, then pricing is the trickiest piece to figure out. Remember, the cheapest option isn't always the best one. In this episode, your wonderful host, Helene, spills the beans on hourly rates, flat fees, and even some baffling clauses. With this insider knowledge, you're now equipped to make that final call and choose the perfect consultant for your project. So tune in, my friends and connections, and let the sourcing games begin!