The consulting agreement summarizes the work to be performed by SMR consultants, the responsibilities of various parties, fees and other conditions. The following elements are contained in the consulting agreement:
1. Overview of Problems/Needs
2. Definition of Consultant Services to Be Provided
- Specific deliverables
- Methodologies to be employed
- Work plan with timetable
3. Responsibilities of Client
- Designation of ‘primary client’
- Designation of ‘primary contact’
- Responsibilities of client (i.e., provision of data, availability for meetings, etc.)
4. Consultant(s) to Be Assigned to Project
- Designation of principal consultant
- Process by which secondary (non-SMR) consultants would be approved if necessary
5. Terms of the Agreement
- Billing Information
- Estimated hours – usually a range that includes travel time, telephone calls and meeting preparation
- Hourly rate, flat rate or retainer depending on agreed upon fee
- Estimated total fees
- Out-of-pocket expenses
- Billing terms – invoice schedule
6. Other Conditions of the Agreement
- Confidentiality/anonymity
- Who and how information will be shared
- Access to information and individuals
- Termination by mutual agreement or other terms
7. Evaluation of the consulting engagement and working relationship
- Review effectiveness of recommended interventions at date subsequent to end of agreement