In today's constantly changing business environment, semiconductor consulting firms offer economically and operationally effective engineering, planning and technology solutions. Semiconductor consultants provide a range of services for new product designs, existing product upgrades and regulatory compliance assistance. Electronics and semiconductor consultants use their knowledge, data and experience to increase productivity and efficiency by addressing essential product issues.

Before beginning your search for electronics consulting companies, it is important to define your consulting needs. Clearly identify the goal of your electronics consultancy, including project scope, services needed, time frame and budget. This information will help you select the best power management consultant to meet your specific needs.

When selecting electronics consulting firms for your organization, research each consulting practice and evaluate the following:

1. What kind of experience do the electronics specialists have in providing effective solutions for companies in your business sector?

2. What electronics and semiconductor consulting services do the firm provide to enhance your products, increase productivity and improve business operations?

3. How much should your business invest in semiconductor consultancy services?

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Hire electronics and semiconductor consultants that specialize in your business sector

Select electronics experts who are seasoned professionals with extensive experience in your business market. Ask to see a list of past and present clients, and request references.

I recommend: Abbie Gregg offers consulting services for semiconductor and microelectronics industries, and features an online client list with project summaries. Intertek provides electronics consulting services to a wide range of industries, and includes an online client list. Notion Development features examples of projects developed for the medical, consumer and industrial products industries.

Choose electronics consultants with proven skills

Review the electronics and semiconductor consulting services provided by each firm. Asses each firm's ability to reduce operating costs, provide state-of-the-art capabilities and bring fresh perspective to your project. Evaluate the electronics consulting firm's experience, qualifications and certifications, and request successful project examples similar in scope to your upcoming project.

I recommend: Consultronix International provides electronic hardware design and instrumentation, automation systems design and systems integration, software development and consultation services for the semiconductor equipment, microelectronics and electronic test industries. ICS Radiation Technologies offers a detailed menu of testing, engineering and consulting services focused on radiation effects in semiconductor devices. White Electronic Designs provides consulting services for microelectronics and semiconductor packaging, high-density memory products, flat panel displays, intelligent human interface devices and electromechanical assemblies.

Select electronics consulting firms that meet your budget

Many electronics consulting companies operate on a retainer with a minimum time commitment. Several utilize an hourly fee structure for short-term projects. Your electronics and semiconductor consulting services cost will depend upon the scope of your services.

I recommend: Hennefer Electronics utilizes hourly fees based on five-, ten- or 20-hour work intervals. CDA Design Group offers hourly, project-based or retainer billing options.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  It is tempting to save time by interviewing just one semiconductor consulting firm. However, it is in your organization's best interest to contact and interview contact several electronics and semiconductor consultants to discuss your potential project. Two or three choices will provide you with the best possible match in skills, services, price and rapport for both you and the electronics consultancy firm.