1. Never use the phrase “it’s not rocket science” in reference to computers or computer science. You will be correct. Computer Science requires a much higher level of dedication and personal time invested in learning than rocket science does. The principles of physics that govern rocket science have changed very little in 100 years. Gravity is still a constant on Earth. Computer science has evolved in a much more explosive manner. When I attended formal computer training in 1989, there were a handful of applications available for PCs. Procomm for word processing, database, and spreadsheets. Harvard graphics for graphics. Windows and DOS for operating systems. Now there are an undocumented number of programs available. For operating systems alone, we have Linux in a great number of distributions. There are three different versions of Windows: XP, Vista, and Windows 7 not counting the 64bit variations. There are exotic choices such as Mac OS for a PC. Networking did not exist. The Internet was available for military and institutions of higher learning.
2. Do Not call your consultant for “advice”. Would you appreciate someone calling you during your off time and asking you to provide detailed information about your work for free?
3. Do NOT send your consultant an email asking for the “advice”. Same as rule 2.
4. Do NOT ask for “advice” from your relatives who are consultants.
5. If you violate tips 2, 3, or 4 don’t be surprised when the consultant invoices you for the time, at holiday rates where applicable. Even worse the next time you need services, that their schedule is booked for the next 6 months or longer.
6. Do NOT negotiate the price after the services are provided. As with any other form of negotiation, keep this up front at the beginning. It avoids misunderstandings.
7. DO negotiate before the work begins. Consultants are often open to negotiation on the price.
A freebie: Do NOT call on a consultant to provide assistance with your technical issues for free, EVER. If you are a regular client this MIGHT be acceptable from time to time. If you bought a system from them, it is probably acceptable to ask their advice about something related to the system you purchased from them. Asking them to help you professionally out of the goodness of their heart when you bought that inexpensive HP or Dell computer at Costco or Sam’s Club, will cost you more than money. Ask the consultant when their next appointment is available and pay them without grumbling, with a smile.
You will end up with computers that actually perform. Your consultant will be happier to see you. You may even save some money. There may be a consultant available to answer your call the next time you have an issue. A reputable computer consultant is hard to find. Even harder when you attempt to pay them less than your mechanic.