
Smart Consulting Sourcing
Business & Economics Podcasts
Each week Hélène Laffitte, consulting sourcing expert and CEO of Consulting Quest, gives you the keys to better use, manage, and source consulting services.
Location:
France
Description:
Each week Hélène Laffitte, consulting sourcing expert and CEO of Consulting Quest, gives you the keys to better use, manage, and source consulting services.
Language:
English
Contact:
33786030755
Episodes
Five Pitfalls to Avoid When Digitalizing Consulting Procurement
2/13/2025
Digitalizing consulting procurement offers immense potential—efficiency, transparency, and smarter decision-making. But without the right approach, organizations can fall into common traps that hinder progress.
In this episode of Smart Consulting Sourcing, Hélène Lafitte, CEO of Consulting Quest, breaks down the five biggest pitfalls companies face when implementing digital procurement solutions. From mistaking tools for the solution to ignoring stakeholder buy-in and overcomplicating the process, she shares actionable strategies to ensure a smooth and successful transformation.
Don’t let digitalization become a roadblock instead of an enabler. Tune in now to discover how to avoid these pitfalls and unlock the full potential of your consulting procurement!
Duration:00:23:19
How to Foster Collaboration Between Procurement and Business Lines in a Digital Era?
2/6/2025
In today’s fast-paced digital world, effective collaboration between procurement and business lines is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity. In this episode of Quick Takes with Smart Consulting Sourcing, Hélène Lafitte, CEO of Consulting Quest, unpacks how organizations can break down silos and foster seamless collaboration. From understanding each other’s priorities to leveraging digital tools for transparency, she shares actionable strategies to build trust and co-create processes that drive impact.
Don’t miss this insightful video on how to align procurement and business teams for smarter consulting decisions. Tune in now and start transforming your approach to collaboration!
Duration:00:04:17
Why Digital Transformation in Consulting Procurement Often Fails (and How to Fix It)?
1/17/2025
Digital transformation isn’t just about flashy new tools—it’s about redefining how we work. In this episode of Smart Consulting Sourcing, Helene Lafitte, CEO of Consulting Quest, dives deep into the pivotal role of change management in digital procurement transformation. From real-world challenges like misaligned teams to actionable strategies for driving success, Helene breaks down why transformation in consulting procurement requires more than technology—it demands a mindset shift and strategic alignment across the board.
Don’t miss this insightful episode that uncovers the secrets to unlocking the full potential of your consulting spend. Tune in now and start transforming smarter!
Duration:00:14:17
Centralised vs. Decentralised Procurement: Which Strategy Drives Better Consulting Results?
11/21/2024
In the world of procurement, centralised vs. decentralised procurement structures is one of the most debated topics. Should you centralize your consulting procurement? Opt for a decentralised approach? Or is the ideal solution a balanced hybrid?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer—but in this episode of Smart Consulting Sourcing, Helene dives deep into these concepts to help you determine which structure best suits your organisation. She explores what centralised and decentralised procurement structures look like, how they influence your organisation’s ability to maximise value from consulting, and how to organize your consulting procurement for optimal results. Don't miss it. Tune in.
Duration:00:19:27
Getting involved earlier as a procurement leader
11/8/2024
We’re back with another Q&A episode of the Smart Consulting Sourcing Podcast! Today, we're tackling a critical topic: the impact of early procurement involvement in consulting projects.
Ever wondered how involving procurement right from the start can transform your consulting outcomes? What strategies can help align stakeholders effectively? And how do you overcome the common challenges of gaining buy-in from senior executives?
If you’re ready to elevate your consulting game and maximize the value of your investments, Helene is here with insights and strategies you won’t want to miss. Let’s jump right in!
Duration:00:24:55
How to Optimize Your Consulting Spend Using Kotter’s 8-Step Model?
10/24/2024
When it comes to optimizing consulting spend, you're not just fine-tuning a few processes—you’re fundamentally shifting how your organization selects and manages consulting services. And let’s be honest, that kind of change often faces resistance, especially from the top. To succeed, you need everyone on board, from procurement to senior leadership.
At Consulting Quest, we rely on John Kotter’s 8 Steps for Leading Change, a proven framework to ensure smooth transitions and lasting success. Optimizing consulting spend touches every part of your organization, so getting buy-in, communicating clearly, and embedding new practices is essential. In this episode of Smart Consulting Sourcing Podcast, your host Helene will take you through how we use Kotter’s model to help organizations like yours get the most out of their consulting spend. Tune in!
Duration:00:27:23
Selecting the Right Consulting Firms for Your Project
10/10/2024
Welcome to the Smart Consulting Sourcing Podcast's LIVE Q&A session! Today, we’re diving into some of the most pressing questions about consulting sourcing.
What’s the first step in choosing the right consulting project? How do you weigh cost versus value when selecting consultants? Should you go with boutique firms or stick to the big players? If you're looking to invest wisely in expertise and get the most out of that investment, you’re in the right place. This session is packed with the advice you need! Tune in.
Duration:00:22:42
The Rise of Specialised Consulting: Why Expertise Matters More Than Ever
9/26/2024
In this episode of Smart Consulting Sourcing podcast, your favourite host, Helene, dives into the fascinating world of specialised and niche consulting—a trend that’s revolutionizing how businesses tackle their most pressing challenges. Think of niche consultants as your business's expert surgeons: for general health, you consult your GP, but for a heart condition, you want a cardiac specialist.
Similarly, as your challenges grow in complexity, so does the need for tailored expertise. From cybersecurity to sustainability, specialized consultants are equipped with the deep knowledge required to provide the precise solutions you need. Tune in to discover how to choose the right specialist for your unique business needs!
Duration:00:22:18
How to prepare for negotiating a consulting agreement?
9/12/2024
In this exciting new episode, we’re launching a fresh segment that’s sure to become a staple in your listening routine—a live monthly Q&A session. Each month, we’ll tackle a hot topic and answer the questions that matter most to you. This week, we’re kicking things off with a deep dive into a subject that every consultant or procurement professional faces sooner or later: negotiations. Today’s session is all about preparation. Specifically, how do you gear up for negotiating a consulting agreement? Are the strategies the same as in any other negotiation, or do consulting services require a unique approach? As we explore this foundational question, we’ll uncover the key factors that set consulting negotiations apart—factors you can leverage to secure the best outcomes for your business. Whether you're a seasoned negotiator or stepping into these discussions for the first time, today’s episode will sharpen your negotiation edge. Listen in and discover the key insights into consulting agreements that could be the deciding factor in your next deal.
Duration:00:36:17
Maximising Consulting Cost Efficiency: The Interplay Between Scoping and Pricing Levers
6/27/2024
In the ever-evolving landscape of business, the role of consulting services has never been more pivotal. For Strategy, Finance, and Procurement Executives, understanding the nuanced overlap between these domains is essential. It is this very overlap that can spell the difference between a consulting project that delivers transformative value and one that merely scratches the surface.
In this episode of our Smart Consulting Sourcing podcast, your host, Helene delves into this critical topic, offering a treasure trove of actionable insights designed to enhance your consulting sourcing processes. Tune in. Don't miss it.
Duration:00:20:59
Optimising Your Consulting Costs: Leveraging Pricing Levers for Maximum Value
6/13/2024
When it comes to navigating the intricate world of consulting, the traditional mindset of price-slashing and hard-nosed bargaining often falls flat. Consulting isn't just another commodity; it demands a sophisticated approach where value and cost optimization go hand in hand.
In this episode of Smar Consulting Sourcing podcast, your host Helene offers profound insights that could transform how organizations engage with consulting firms. This nuanced strategy not only ensures better deals but also fosters a productive and positive relationship with consulting firms, ultimately driving greater success for all parties involved.
Duration:00:17:44
The Scoping Lever and Its Significance in Optimizing Consulting Costs
5/30/2024
We will delve into a crucial aspect that every business executive, whether you’re in procurement, strategy, finance, or sitting in the C-suite, needs to master: the art of scoping your consulting projects.
Proper scoping isn't just about controlling costs—it’s about maximizing the value each consulting engagement brings to your organization. Scoping your consulting projects is not just a preliminary step before issuing an RFP; it’s a dynamic tool that plays a crucial role throughout the entire buying process.
Surprisingly, scoping remains relevant even after a project has started. It is essential for managing change orders and ensuring project adaptability. In this episode of the Smart Consulting Sourcing Podcast, Helene unveils some of the secret weapons we use at Consulting Quest to harness the full power of scoping.
Join us on the Smart Consulting Sourcing Podcast, where Helene explores how to procure, utilize, and manage consulting services as strategic investments. Don't miss it!
Duration:00:18:47
An Overview of Consulting Quest's Framework for Optimizing Consulting Costs
5/16/2024
Optimizing consulting costs is the top priority for companies investing in consulting services. However, at Consulting Quest, we don't merely focus on cost-cutting; we prioritize obtaining the best value for your investment. We have developed a comprehensive framework that considers both scoping and pricing levers to ensure that every dollar you invest in consulting delivers maximum impact.
In this episode of the Smart Consulting Sourcing podcast, your host, Helene, introduces Consulting Quest's holistic approach to cost optimization, which extends beyond consulting fees.
Join us as Helene breaks down the key components of our framework, discusses why it is effective, and explores the strategies and tactics you can implement to unlock value and drive success in your consulting engagements.
Duration:00:17:44
The Role of Demand Management in Optimizing Consulting Spend
5/9/2024
Welcome to another episode of the Smart Consulting Sourcing podcast, where your favourite host, Helene, delves into the nitty-gritty of consulting sourcing, and today she's tackling a critical aspect, demand management.
Think of demand management as your trusted decision-making partner. It's there to ensure you're putting your resources where they truly count – on the projects that will drive tangible value for your organization. In simpler terms, it's about making smart choices with your consulting budget.
In this episode, Helene will explore why demand management is crucial for consulting procurement. She'll uncover how effective demand management can provide organizations with the foresight they need. Because having that foresight can be the difference between strategic success and playing catch-up with reactive damage control.
So, grab your headphones and tune in. Trust us, you won't want to miss this!
Duration:00:18:47
5 Ways Consulting Cost Savings Can Impact Organizations
5/2/2024
Consulting isn’t just a line-item expense; it’s a strategic investment poised to propel organizations toward unprecedented growth and efficiency. By balancing cost considerations with strategic alignment and reinvesting savings wisely, we can unlock the transformative power of consulting and chart a course toward enduring success.
In this episode of the Smart Consulting Sourcing podcast, we're delving into five key ways that cost savings from consulting can benefit companies. Join your host, Helene, as she explores the connections between cost, value, and how they fuel organizational transformation. Discover how navigating this terrain wisely can reshape the future trajectory of your company.
Duration:00:18:52
Saving Money on Consulting Services
4/18/2024
In the realm of business strategy, the significance of cost savings cannot be overstated. Today, we kick off 'Decoding Cost Savings in Consulting,' a series that will shed light on this important topic. We aim to make understanding savings in consulting simple yet essential for success.
Effective consulting procurement isn’t just about cutting costs; it’s about ensuring that every dollar spent translates into tangible organizational benefits. From demand management to negotiating prices, we’ll dissect the strategies that lead to genuine value.
Join us as we shift the focus from immediate savings to long-term gains. By adopting a holistic view of value, we empower you to make informed decisions that align with your organization’s overarching objectives.
Don’t miss out on the opportunity to gain invaluable insights into the art of smart spending in consulting. Tune in and embark on a journey towards a more prosperous and strategic approach to procurement.
Duration:00:21:22
Inside the Costs of a Consulting Firm
4/11/2024
In this episode of the Smart Consulting Sourcing podcast, your host, Helene, dives into a topic that's essential but often misunderstood in the world of consulting: the cost of revenue. Think of it like the Cost of Goods Sold in other industries, but instead of physical products, we're talking about the brainpower, time, and expertise of consultants. So, the cost of revenue covers everything it takes to get those brilliant minds working on your project.
We're delving into what exactly makes consulting firms financially tick. Is the cost structure as straightforward as it seems? What's the formula for profitability here? And most importantly, what's truly crucial in negotiations—is it focusing on the consultants' margin, or is it the measurable value you get from their expertise?
Understanding these inner workings can give you a real edge in negotiating consulting fees effectively. Don't miss out on this insightful discussion!
Duration:00:20:37
Value-Based Pricing in Consulting
4/4/2024
When embarking on a new project, finding the right fee structure can significantly enhance your company's value. The optimal approach depends on factors such as the project's essence, the nature of deliverables, the surrounding context, and your flexibility with fees, along with the level of commitment you seek from your consulting partner.
Value-sharing emerges as a strategic choice when aiming for high expectations, expecting consultants to exceed standard norms. This model is particularly beneficial for certain types of projects, clients and consulting firms. However, it also comes with its challenges. Success with this model hinges on clear objectives, effective communication, and mutual trust between clients and consultants.
In this episode of the Smart Consulting Sourcing podcast, Helene explores these questions and more. Tune in for valuable insights.
Duration:00:20:49
Decoding Consulting Prices: What Influences the Numbers?
3/28/2024
You might think that figuring out how much a consulting project will cost is as simple as picking a price tag off a shelf. But in reality, it's much more complicated than that. Even when fee structures are clearly laid out, two projects that seem identical on paper can end up with very different cost estimates. Why does this happen? Well, there are a lot of different factors that affect the final number you see on a proposal.
Today, we're going to really dig into what influences consulting fees, going beyond just the basics. In today's episode of Smart Consulting Sourcing, aptly titled "Decoding Consulting Prices," your favorite host, Helene delves deep into the heart of what truly shapes consulting fees, providing invaluable insights for both seasoned professionals and newcomers alike.
Helene gives listeners the information and tools they need to make smart choices when hiring consulting services. In an industry where getting good value is really important, knowing what's really behind the numbers isn't just a skill—it's a big advantage. So, don’t miss the episode. Tune in.
Duration:00:17:46
Fundamentals of Consulting Pricing - The Rates
3/14/2024
In the world of business, consulting services play a pivotal role in shaping strategies, driving innovation, and solving complex problems. However, the question of how to negotiate win-win deal with consultants while ensuring value remains a constant challenge for clients.
In this episode of Smart Consulting Sourcing podcast, your favorite host Helene delves deep into this issue, exploring various pricing models and their implications. Tune in.
Duration:00:16:13