computer consultant's job

A computer consultant's job is to help companies and organizations realize the profit potential in computers, by helping solve information-management problems. Computer consulting usually serves two functions: to select the appropriate computer system, including which peripherals, systems, networks, servers and software to buy (normally a one-time project); or to integrate the computer into day-to-day management (could be a recurring assignment). Some of the key types of work a consultant does are as follows: business requirement analysis, preliminary system design, hardware acquisition and installation, documentation, system maintenance, periodic evaluation and audits, among others.
You need to have a strong computer background, particularly in your field of specialization (i.e. database management). To get you started in this business, you can buy classified ad space in business and technical publications. Writing papers at technical conferences or articles in a business journal are also effective in bringing your name in front of potential customer. Start-up costs for this business may range from $1,500 (consulting for existing clients) to a high of $10,000 (includes an office and advertising). While this is a competitive market, earning potential of this business can be substantial. Computer consulting rates range from $50 to $150 per hour, with $75 as the most typical hourly rate. Large firms pay higher rates. Annual revenues for this business may be between $50,000 to $250,000 per year, depending on your specialization (industries you serve; hardware and software you specialize), client size, length of project, among others.