This is a question that I have heard — and seen posted on forums — many times over the years, and the honest answer is yes and no. Probably not the answer you were looking for.
In today's world, everyone uses a computer, and most users think they know more about computers than they really do, simply because they use one every day. In most cases, there are plenty of things a normal computer user can handle without a consultant. My focus for this article, however, is the business environment.
Most businesses have specific software applications installed to run their operations, and not all of these applications require a consultant to install, update, and troubleshoot — but some do.
As a software consultant, I encounter these scenarios frequently: a business tries to save money by installing or upgrading their firm-wide software without engaging a consultant specific to their application or involving their IT and networking company.
Let me use an example. When I was younger, I enjoyed working on cars — especially my own — since I didn't have money to pay a mechanic. I was young, didn't have a career or much money, so I spent time learning how everything worked. Over the years, I rebuilt engines, replaced transmissions, and handled an extensive amount of troubleshooting and repairs. This saved me money and even made me money working on friends' cars.
As time went on, I got deeper into the computer software and IT industry, and I couldn't spend as much time on cars. There is a significant difference between working on a 1980s car and a 2010 model — the technology has changed enormously. Unless you've invested the time and money to keep up, you are no longer the car expert you used to be. Why? Because that's not your job, and you're not a mechanic.
I can still handle some minor work on a car, but even that can be tricky because you sometimes need special tools — tools I don't own and have no reason to buy for a one-time use. This is where my mechanic comes in, because working on cars is what he does for a living. He knows far more about cars than I do, but I know far more about computers than he does. Do you see where I'm going?
If you use industry-specific or enterprise software to run your firm, I strongly recommend spending the money on a consultant who is certified in that application to handle the installation, upgrade, or necessary training. A certified consultant will most likely be able to deploy it, configure it, troubleshoot it, and have it fully operational in a fraction of the time it would take you. If an issue arises during installation, a premier consultant knows how to address it. Without that expertise, you would likely spend an hour researching online without success before calling technical support. Wouldn't your time have been better spent working and billing — time that would ultimately offset or even fully cover the cost of the consultant?
This doesn't apply only to software consultants. It applies to IT and networking consultants and any other premier service provider. We have taken the time to learn, train, and earn certifications in our industry, making us experts at what we do — just as you are an expert at what you do as a lawyer, doctor, engineer, or any other specialist.
I could probably read up on how to defend myself in court for some minor or even major offense, but I would only know the basics because I am not a lawyer. I didn't go to law school or argue cases in a courtroom — I'm a software consultant, and I don't pretend to be a lawyer.
With all the information available on the internet, it's easy to believe we can find the answer to any question and perform complex tasks with ease because someone has already posted a solution online. Many of you know that's not always the case.
Let me bring it back to the point.
My suggestion: if you rely on your software and hardware to run your business, invest in a premier consultant to troubleshoot and resolve the issue. It will cost you less in the long run, and you're really not saving much — if anything — by trying to handle it yourself.