Working with a software developer consultant differs from managing an employee. Here’s how to make it efficient.
Define clear goals
Consultants work best when goals are clear and measurable. State what needs to be done, by when, and the quality criteria.
Ensure open communication
Set up a brief weekly or daily meeting (15 min). Make sure the consultant has a fast way to ask questions — Slack, Teams or email. Slow responses are the most common cause of project delays.
Grant access and autonomy
The consultant needs access to the relevant systems, documentation and key people. Give them the authority to make technical decisions — don’t require approval for every detail.
Build trust
The consultant isn’t an outsider but a member of the team for the duration of the project. Invite them to meetings and shared celebrations. The more they feel part of the team, the better the results.
