Why Hire an Independent Hardware Consultant?

Is it really a good idea to utilize “free” hardware consulting services offered by hardware mannufacturers? Since nothing is truly “free”, we looked into this question and offer some insight to help you with your decision.

Agreement Type

AWCWEST: A written legal contract between the consultant and the architect or building owner. The consultant is an official member of the team.

VENDOR CONSULTANT: Non-binding verbal agreement.

Design Fees

AWCWEST: Set fees agreed to in contract. The hardware consultant fees are typically the least of all consultant fees on the project.

VENDOR CONSULTANT: Free (no direct cost). Hardware manufacturer pays consultant’s salary, and the cost is recovered in product selection.

Insurance Coverage

AWCWEST: Professional liability, General business liability, and Automobile liability coverage.

VENDOR CONSULTANT: Typically none

Consultant Motivation

AWCWEST: Seeks to perform well for client to earn repeat and referral business.

VENDOR CONSULTANT: Seeks to gain maximum commission from hardware manufacturer.

Product Selection

AWCWEST: Competitive specification written with products trusted by the consultant and specifically selected to meet the project’s functional, aesthetic, and performance requirements. Owner’s and architect’s preferences are respected and integrated into specification.

VENDOR CONSULTANT: Proprietary specification written around manufacturer’s product lines represented by the vendor consultant.

Cost to Owner

AWCWEST: Slightly increased design costs. Lower build costs due to competitive specification and appropriate products detailed effectively.

VENDOR CONSULTANT: Slightly decreased design costs. Higher build costs due to proprietary specifications.