This report explains how to identify a list of prospective consultants, define the consultant's task, establish a budget, and prepare an RFP that best represents your agency and its project. It also tells how to prevent miscommunication, establish control over the project, and resolve disputes. A sample evaluation form will help you compare applicants. This must-read guide will help you and your consultant avoid common pitfalls and complete your project on time and to specifications.

For professional advice; understand how consultants and advisers operate and how they charge; define your requirements and specify the job to be done; select the consultants that are right for you; go out to tender; draw up contracts; keep track of the work; deal effectively with problems; develop successful working and partnering relationships.