Properly understanding the real need or problem is crucial for making wise business decisions and selecting the right technology. This is why we believe every project roadmap should begin with tech consultant. Over the years, we’ve developed a unique methodology called “Future as a Service.” This approach is based on the idea that innovation consulting should identify the expected value-add, determine who and what will be affected, and explain how they will benefit. Our team of digital natives always focuses on meeting the current needs of the target market from the outset. Let us show you what well-organized technology consulting looks like.
The pace of change in technology is overwhelming. Whether considering the increasing number of websites, the growth of connected devices, or the explosion of big data, technology is advancing exponentially.
This is where technology consultants come in. These specialists bring a unique, objective, and expert perspective on technology. They apply their skills to enhance business outcomes.
What is a tech consultant?
Technical consultants collaborate with organizations to enhance their use of technology and achieve business objectives. Experts in fields such as computer science, they are hired to provide advice, resolve organizational issues, and drive increased efficiency.
Suppose you have an idea for a new digital product but no clue how to bring it to life. That’s where technology consulting comes in. This service offers a structured, proprietary approach to managing the development of product or process innovations. It begins with understanding the current state of your target market. Before creating the product, it is essential to define the project scope, considering aspects such as business benefits, boundaries, competition, stakeholders, product vision, and processes. In essence, tech consulting is a system that helps identify the real need or problem, enabling informed business decisions and technology choices.
What does a tech consultant do?
Technology consultants play a vital role in helping businesses transform their use of technology. A tech consultant has the opportunity to engage in a variety of exciting projects, ensuring businesses keep pace with the ever-changing world of technology.
The role of tech consultants in product development is to help clients choose the right technological solutions and guide them in using these solutions more efficiently. The methods employed by tech consultants aim to improve business processes, minimize costs, and enhance technological opportunities. Consulting services are crucial to the entire digital strategy. Therefore, a tech consultant’s job is not only to advise clients on managing IT resources to improve business outcomes but also to develop robust process strategies. Our consultants always focus on understanding client problems and working towards solutions by adopting various technologies. Regardless of the stage of product development, you can always request a consultation with our specialists to define a new strategy or update the existing one.
Technology consultants go by many names, including:
- IT consultants
- computer consultants
- software consultants
- business and technology advisors
- digital consultants
How to become a Tech Consultant
Here are five steps to take to become a technology consultant:
Get a Bachelor’s Degree in IT
Pursue a bachelor’s degree with a major in the IT field. A bachelor’s degree provides foundational knowledge of IT subjects like network architecture, computer science, and programming. This knowledge helps you understand how technology works, making you a better advisor and providing the credentials needed for IT jobs. A bachelor’s degree program typically takes three to four years to complete. Consider an IT degree in areas such as:
- Cybersecurity
- Technology management
- Network administration
- Computer programming
- Computer science
Research Technology Trends
Gain Technology Experience
Offer Consultation Services
Continue to Learn and Expand Your Skill Set
Technology consultant skills
Technology consultants need a blend of technical and soft skills to excel in their roles, including:
Computer Science Skills
A solid understanding of computer science fundamentals is essential for advising companies on technological concepts and methods.
Cybersecurity Skills
Consultants should have a range of cybersecurity skills, from basic to advanced, to provide guidance on best practices and emerging threats to technology infrastructure.
Collaboration Skills
Working with executives, employees, and stakeholders requires strong collaboration skills, such as active listening and effective delegation, to identify needs and achieve goals
.
Programming Skills
Depending on their area of expertise, consultants should have a good grasp of computer and software programming to advise on custom software development or cybersecurity tool programming.
Database Skills
Proficiency in managing and retrieving data from digital databases is crucial for advising clients on effective database management.
Patience
Consultants must be patient when explaining technical requirements and solutions, guiding clients through complex concepts with clear communication.
Attention to Detail
An acute attention to detail is necessary to provide accurate advice and identify crucial aspects of a project, minimizing errors.
Negotiation Skills
Consultants often negotiate IT changes with company executives, relying on strong communication, compromise, collaboration, and active listening skills.
When should a company use tech consultant services?
Tech company managers may feel overwhelmed by the vast array of technologies available on the market, making it challenging to choose solutions that will truly benefit their business. Turning to technology consulting firms can alleviate this burden. Tech consultants bring a broad perspective across various industries and are adept at addressing current market needs and trends, including in-demand green solutions. Here’s how technology consulting can add value:
Shaping Product Ideas
If you have a product idea but are uncertain about its form, essential functions, or market success, tech consulting can provide crucial insights. A team of specialists will analyze the current market landscape and recommend profitable solutions tailored to your idea.
Defining Stakeholder Needs
Following initial research and analysis, the tech consulting team will verify assumptions and delve deeper into the needs of users and stakeholders, ensuring that all relevant requirements are thoroughly addressed.
Creating Solutions
Once the analysis is complete, technology consulting firms focus on developing optimal solutions. This involves validating these solutions, planning their implementation, and selecting key features. The project prototype is then tested and refined using an agile approach to ensure it meets the necessary standards.
Estimating Costs and Opportunities
After testing and adjusting the product prototype to align with stakeholder needs, tech consultants assist in planning the next steps. This includes preparing detailed product specifications, estimating the budget, and creating a project timeline.
How is tech consultant help running development projects forward?
Tech consulting services can provide significant value for those struggling with product development. Instead of trying to determine whether your idea is viable, identifying the essential features for market success, or figuring out how to launch your product cost-effectively and profitably, consider leveraging reliable tech consulting services. These experts can accelerate your project development, whether you’re in the early planning stages or need to upgrade an existing product.
Although investing in tech consulting might seem substantial, it can ultimately save you both time and money. Building a new team, allowing them to gel, and guiding them through the learning curve to choose the best solutions can take months. Meanwhile, keeping everything in-house may not always be the most efficient choice.
By hiring a team of experienced tech consultants who have worked together on numerous projects, you benefit from their expertise and proven track record. They understand how to meet both your needs and your customers’ needs effectively. While the tech consultants focus on crafting and executing your project plan, you can use the time saved to further develop your business.
Responsibilities of a Technical Consultant
- Liaise with clients and stakeholders to determine project requirements.
- Define project parameters, timelines, and deliverables.
- Build and maintain expert knowledge of technology solutions.
- Design and test a range of software and technical solutions.
- Drive the rapid adoption of new technologies, ideas, and processes.
- Create user and training documentation and oversee training sessions.
- Use data modeling and analysis to inform and illustrate solutions.
- Develop functional specifications for developers to implement.
- Create testing and deployment processes and plans, and oversee deployments.
- Serve as the first point of contact, providing guidance and advice throughout the project.
Profile of a Technical Consultant
Technical consultants are effective communicators with a strong ability to quickly understand and address business problems. They often work freelance, servicing a list of clients, or may be employed by consultancy firms or technology-driven organizations in an ongoing capacity.
Why are tech consultants needed to set up enterprise software?
Why do companies need tech consultants to set up software for them? Here are a few key reasons:
Complexity & Customization
Installing enterprise software is far more complex than downloading an app on your phone. These systems need to integrate with a company’s existing processes and systems, which are often intricate.
Each business has unique needs and challenges, requiring software to be customized to fit specific requirements. Tech consultants excel in adapting and configuring these systems to align with a company’s workflows, business processes, and objectives.
When a client purchases software, they essentially receive a basic framework. For example, Workday might sell a license that allows 10 users for $5 million, plus a monthly subscription fee. However, this license is just an empty shell.
Tech consultants come in to understand the client’s needs and configure the software to address them comprehensively—from procurement processes to budgeting and forecasting future growth.
Change Management
Introducing a new enterprise system can be disruptive for employees accustomed to existing processes. Tech consultants play a crucial role in managing this transition by training staff, providing support during the adaptation period, and ensuring minimal business disruption.
Often, users resist new systems, especially if they’ve been using the old system for years. For example, after a decade of working with a particular setup, learning a completely new system can feel like an additional burden.
This is where change management comes into play. Some clients hire separate change management consultants to help convince users of the benefits of the new system.
In my experience, I’ve worked with change management consultants only a few times. Most often, we handle change management ourselves. As tech consultants, the strong relationships we build with clients during the project help ease the transition and reduce resistance to the new system.
Ongoing Support & Optimization
Once the software is operational, it requires continuous maintenance and updates. Tech consultants offer ongoing support to resolve any issues that arise and make necessary adjustments as the business evolves and grows.
Typically, there is a support period of 1-2 months after the software goes live. During this time, we address any problems that arise. Once the support period concludes, clients have the option to either handle issues in-house or enter into an ad hoc support contract with the consulting firm for ongoing assistance as needed.
This support is often referred to as “Application Management Services” (AMS). Frequently, this work is handled by teams outside the US, such as in India, who provide ongoing support and maintenance.
In summary, enterprise software can be a significant investment, and tech consultants ensure that this investment delivers tangible benefits for the company.
Is tech consultant field for me?
What is it like to work as a junior tech consultant?
As a junior tech consultant, your daily responsibilities will primarily involve training and assisting with the backend tasks of configuring software for clients.
For example, if you’re working with enterprise software like Workday, your first step would be to get certified in the system. This involves a week of training followed by a certification test. After earning your certification in a specific area, such as the supply chain module of Workday, you would then receive training in other areas, like Accounts Payable or Procure-to-Pay.
Typically, you would work closely with a senior consultant who will guide you through the learning process. This initial phase is just the beginning. After completing one project, you might have a break before getting certified in additional areas, like Business Assets or Tax, helping you explore your interests and career path.
As a junior consultant, you typically won’t interact directly with clients. When starting as an intern or analyst, you may not yet have the expertise to provide client advice, and it’s important to avoid giving clients the impression that we lack expertise.
As a strategy consultant, creating visually appealing PowerPoint slides is crucial, as they are used to persuade clients to adopt your ideas. In contrast, as a tech consultant, our slides don’t need to be elaborate. Clients have already invested in a system and seek our assistance with its configuration.
Therefore, our slides will be more straightforward, focusing on elements such as the pain points identified by employees, our recommendations for software components to use, areas of the software where we need employee input for testing, and training information..
Like consultants in other fields, you’ll be expected to assist with additional tasks when you have downtime between projects.
You generally aim to maintain a utilization rate of 80-85%, with only project work contributing to this metric. If your utilization rate is lower than your peers’, you’ll need to provide an explanation.
To avoid the perception that you’re not making productive use of your time, you can engage in extra training or contribute to other firm activities. For example, I’ve participated in recruiting rounds and assisted with onboarding events, including taking new hires to Disneyland.
Additionally, you might support business development efforts, such as helping the firm secure new clients. For instance, if my director is pitching a project to JP Morgan, I might assist by creating PowerPoint presentations, developing system mockups for client demonstrations, and drafting Statements of Work (SOWs)
Do tech consultants need to code?.
Whether you need coding skills depends on the software you specialize in. For instance, software like SAP often requires more coding expertise, while others may not.
If you’re working with SAP, coding is necessary. For example, during SAP EPM implementations, basic SQL is used for calculations. Implementing SAP’s Business Warehouse also requires a different set of coding skills to meet client requirements.
On the other hand, with Workday, coding is generally not required. Instead, you need to understand the underlying logic of the system. However, some minimal SQL coding might be needed, depending on the complexity of the client’s needs.
Being a computer science graduate doesn’t guarantee a spot in tech consulting.
When I started at a boutique consulting firm, there were six of us, and only one had a computer science background. The rest came from fields like accounting and economics, with skills in reading and understanding financial statements.
If you’re a computer science grad without knowledge of financial statements, you might fit well on the SAP side, especially in business warehousing. However, you might not be as suited for roles that require business acumen, such as ERP or EPM consulting. Teaching financial or accounting concepts—like reading balance sheets, income statements, and cash flow statements—can be challenging, while technical skills are something that can be trained.
Best parts of tech consulting
The highlights of tech consulting often include the travel opportunities and client interactions.
I particularly enjoy face time with clients. In tech consulting, we get to work across various industries, interacting with clients from diverse backgrounds. Even as an analyst, working at the client’s location allows you to build relationships and understand them better, even if you’re not directly advising them.
I also appreciate the chance to travel, explore different states, and enjoy the experience. Clients are generally very accommodating, making the travel experience enjoyable.
However, since COVID, there has been less travel and fewer in-person client interactions. On the plus side, we’ve had more opportunities to work from home, which I also find beneficial.
Favorite aspects include traveling to client sites and exploring new areas. I enjoy learning about our clients’ daily operations—Deloitte had some fascinating clients during my time there! Additionally, I value the opportunity to take on stretch roles and work alongside mid-career professionals.
Worst parts of tech consulting
Consultants often cite long hours and dead-end projects as some of their least favorite aspects of the job.
What I find particularly challenging is the demanding work hours—they can be extremely long. For instance, if a system is scheduled to go live on January 1st, it means I miss out on Christmas and New Year’s holidays. Additionally, once the system is live, taking leave isn’t an option. The unpredictability and intensity of the hours can be quite difficult to manage.
Least favorite: Discovering that duplicate effort has been spent solving the same problem. It’s surprisingly common on large projects involving hundreds of people.
Hours & flexibility as a tech consultant
In terms of hours, tech consulting is far from a 9-to-5 job.
A typical day can extend to 12-13 hours, especially if you’re juggling multiple projects and are also involved in sales or business development activities. Even with a utilization rate of 150%, you may still be expected to take on additional sales tasks. There’s pressure to accept these requests, as declining them once might lead to fewer opportunities for future involvement.
Tech consulting offers flexibility and significant potential for remote work.
Before COVID, frequent client site visits were the norm. However, with the shift to remote work, clients now prefer virtual interactions. This change benefits firms by reducing travel-related expenses such as hotels, meals, per diem, and other costs.
Today, tech consultants can work flexibly, even from outside the US, unless a client specifically restricts it. For instance, I had a banking client that provided a dedicated work laptop but did not allow it to be taken out of the US. In contrast, most other industries are quite flexible and permit remote work.
What do you do after tech consulting? (Exit options)
A straightforward exit strategy is to transition to an in-house role at a client’s company, where you can manage their enterprise software as an internal expert.
As a tech consultant, you acquire both backend knowledge (how to configure systems) and industry expertise (how businesses handle specific processes, such as financial calculations). This enables you to offer recommendations based on industry standards, like suggesting how to calculate certain financial metrics.
In this role, you could become a “Superuser” within the client company. Typically, a client will train several of their employees to become “Superusers” or internal experts on the software they use. You could be hired as an in-house “Super Admin” to oversee the system, with potential titles such as “Finance Administrator,” “Finance Manager,” or “Systems Administrator.”
In addition to client companies, you can also join other organizations as their in-house enterprise software expert or offer your expertise as an independent consultant.
Provide Value as a Technology Consultant
Technology consulting is a highly valuable and profitable field, with technology consultants serving as key assets to their clients. As a tech consultant, you bring essential skills to businesses of all sizes, helping them retain top talent, enhance their products, and drive growth. Success in this industry requires a combination of skills, knowledge, and ambition. By following the outlined steps to start your career in technology consulting, you’ll be well-positioned to provide significant value as a consultant.
FAQ about tech consultant
What does a tech consultant do?
A tech consultant provides expert advice on technology solutions to help businesses improve their operations and achieve their goals. They assess current technology systems, recommend improvements, implement new technologies, and offer ongoing support to ensure that technology aligns with the company’s needs.
What skills are needed to be a successful tech consultant?
Successful tech consultants typically need a mix of technical skills, such as knowledge of software and systems, and soft skills, like communication and problem-solving. Key skills include proficiency in programming, understanding of cybersecurity, database management, and the ability to work collaboratively with clients and stakeholders.
What industries do tech consultants work in?
Tech consultants work across a wide range of industries, including finance, healthcare, retail, manufacturing, and more. Their role can vary depending on the industry, but they generally focus on helping businesses optimize their technology to improve efficiency and drive growth.
How do tech consultants typically get hired?
Tech consultants can be hired through consulting firms or work as independent contractors. They are often brought in based on their expertise in specific technologies or industries. Networking, referrals, and demonstrating a track record of successful projects are common ways to secure consulting opportunities.
What is the typical career path for a tech consultant?
The typical career path for a tech consultant often starts with gaining experience in a technical role or in IT. From there, professionals may transition into consulting roles, and with experience, they can advance to senior consultant positions, management roles, or specialize in a particular technology or industry.
What are the benefits of hiring a tech consultant?
Hiring a tech consultant provides several benefits, including access to specialized expertise, objective advice, and efficient problem-solving. Consultants can help companies implement new technologies, streamline processes, and enhance their overall technology strategy without the need for long-term commitments.
How does a tech consultant approach a new project?
A tech consultant typically starts by understanding the client’s current technology landscape and business needs. They then conduct a thorough analysis, develop a strategy, and recommend solutions. The consultant may assist with implementation, testing, and provide ongoing support as needed.
What are some common challenges faced by tech consultants?
Common challenges for tech consultants include managing client expectations, dealing with complex or legacy systems, and navigating organizational change. Consultants may also face difficulties in aligning technology solutions with business goals or ensuring user adoption of new systems.
How do tech consultants stay current with technology trends?
Tech consultants stay current by continually learning and adapting to new technologies. This includes attending industry conferences, participating in training and certification programs, reading industry publications, and networking with other professionals in the field.
What is the typical duration of a tech consulting project?
The duration of a tech consulting project varies depending on its complexity and scope. It can range from a few weeks for smaller projects to several months or even years for large-scale implementations. The timeline is usually determined during the planning phase based on the project’s requirements and goals.
conclusion
Tech consulting is a dynamic and impactful field that plays a crucial role in helping businesses navigate the ever-evolving landscape of technology. Tech consultants bring specialized expertise to the table, offering valuable insights and solutions that enhance operational efficiency, drive innovation, and support business growth. Their work spans a variety of industries and involves addressing complex challenges, implementing cutting-edge technologies, and managing transitions effectively.
While the role demands a blend of technical proficiency and soft skills, such as communication and problem-solving, it also offers significant rewards, including the opportunity to work on diverse projects, interact with clients from various sectors, and continually learn and adapt to new advancements. Whether working as part of a consulting firm or as an independent contractor, tech consultants are essential partners for businesses seeking to leverage technology for strategic advantage.
Ultimately, the success of a tech consultant lies in their ability to understand client needs, deliver tailored solutions, and contribute to the overall success of the organizations they serve. With a focus on providing value and driving technological excellence, tech consultants are pivotal in shaping the future of technology and its role in business.
