8 ways to detect (and reject) terrible IT consulting advice

Remember, too, that poor decisions based on bad advice will inevitably lead to lost time. The cost of not solving the issue, as well as lost energy and focus, will have a direct impact on the teams involved, Carslay warns. “They’ll need to recover, and at the same time, the right solution needs to be delivered.”

3. The advice simply doesn’t make sense

When advice lacks logical reasoning, contradicts data, or fails to consider long-term consequences, it’s likely terrible. “A critical mind and rigorous evaluation will help you distinguish the good from the bad,” says Edward Kring, vice president of engineering at software development company Invozone.com.

Following poor advice can lead to detrimental outcomes, including wasted time, lost resources, and missed opportunities. It can also result in financial losses, reputational damage, and hindered progress toward anticipated goals. Meanwhile, poor advice can negatively impact decision-making, business relationships, and long-term success. Kring notes that it’s crucial to exercise caution and discernment when considering advice to mitigate these potential consequences.

4. Broaden your scope and involve internal expertise

Look beyond consultants and access the real-world knowledge available from subject matter experts, advises Dirk Mersch, CEO of the North American Office for CamIn-Cambridge Innovation Consulting. SMEs can supply insights and answers faster and more cost effectively than generalists, he says.

Department heads and other SMEs offer excellent sounding boards, says Ann Martin, director of operations with CreditDonkey, a credit review and comparison website. “If they don’t believe that a consultant’s advice is feasible, practical, or useful, odds are good that they’re right, especially if you get this answer from multiple departments.”

Remember, however, that SMEs often have their own goals, which can sometimes impact their objectivity. Overall, the best approach is to seek input from a range of different SMEs, Mersch says.

About Author

AndyC

Andy Curtis is an award-winning security consultant, researcher and public speaker. He has been working in the computer security industry since the early 1990s, having been employed by state and federal government, leading healthcare and banking providers across three continents. He has given talks about computer security for some of the world’s largest companies, worked with law enforcement agencies on investigations into hacking groups, and is a regular voice on TV and radio explaining IT security threats.

See author's posts