How do i know when i need technical assistance?
Typically when you feel challenged in any business area, e.g. program development, administration/operations, fund development, legal issues. computer literacy, etc. Technical Assistance experts can provide the advice and/or training you need to address the challenge.
are technical assistance consultations affordable?
Fee rates may vary depending upon the consultant's level of expertise and credentials. For example, some attorneys serve as technical advisors on rules/regulations and protection laws which may warrant higher service fees.
are there funding resources to pay for technical assistance consultations?
Yes, there are several resources. that provide free technical assistance to Faith-based and nonprofit entities. Visit www.amodelbasedonfaith.org and participate in their annual program series. Also, check with your funders,. More often than not, funders are open to providing grants for technical assistance and capacity building needs.
How would i go about selecting a technical assistance consultant?
Yow want to find a person that is well-versed in your challenge area and has consistent demonstrated experience reflected in their career history. It's OK to ask for a resume and references as you would for any new hire. Another important factor is to rely on your common sense and logic. Does what you are learning make good sense to you to do? Lastly, I would say you should be able to feel free and comfortable with sharing your challenges and accepting feedback. and guidance.
do i need to have a contractual agreement with the consultant?
Yes! You both need to be very clear about your business needs and service expectations. Your agreements should definitely include: all agreed upon service expectations, number of training/consultation sessions, their duration and payment amount and frequency. I recommend including a generic clause allowing either party to cancel the agreement at anytime for any reason. This avoids uncomfortable issues if later you or the consultant find that things are working out as hoped and its time to end the commitment.
do i have to pay for technical assistance service fees at our first meeting?
If you are going through a free program than no there shouldn't be technical assistance fees. If you are working with an independent provider, It depends upon their individual requirements. Generally. the initial consultation is free. During the free consultation, the provider will collect information from you and share service expectations and other information. Once you both agree to work together, the service agreement should be created and reflect what was discussed, then signed by both the authorizing parties. Once that is done, the work begins as well as the service charges.
Is it the responsibility of the technical assistance service provider to create the contractual agreement?
Typically yes. However, either of you can create the agreement. The important thing is that you must both agree to what is stated and abide by it.
Can you recommend a technical assistance provider for my organization?
Feel free to select the button below and email a brief summary of need. I may be able to recommend someone for an initial consultation, but remember, you must conduct your own due diligence to determine if the person is a good fit for what's needed.
