Guide series · 7 guides

Choosing an AI consultant

Seven short guides that take you from "should we get help?" to a signed brief: how to choose, what to ask, the warning signs, what it costs, how to write a brief, which kind of help fits, and how to check credentials.

The guides, in reading order

  1. How to choose an AI consultant

    How to choose an AI consultant or AI consultancy in the UK: define the problem, compare fairly and start with a small, paid first project.

  2. Questions to ask an AI consultant before you hire

    Before you hire an AI consultant, ask these questions. They separate a good adviser from a good salesperson, with what a strong answer sounds like.

  3. Red flags when hiring an AI consultant

    Warning signs that an AI consultant is overselling, under-qualified or about to lock you in, and what to do when you spot one.

  4. How much does an AI consultant cost in the UK?

    Dated UK day rates and typical small-business AI spend from named sources, and what that budget buys from an AI consultant.

  5. How to write an AI project brief

    A one-page brief gets you better proposals and fairer quotes. What to put in each section, with a free template to download.

  6. AI consultant vs agency vs freelancer: which fits?

    AI consultant, AI automation agency or freelance AI consultant? How they differ in cost, scope and risk, and which kind of help your project needs.

  7. How to check an AI consultant's credentials

    How to check an AI consultant's experience, references and case studies before you sign, and which claims are worth checking first.

Opening soon

Find an AI consultant near you

We are building a directory of UK AI consultants, agencies and freelancers. The first practice is listed, and the directory opens to other practices soon. Nobody can pay for a higher place in it.

See the listed practices

Until it opens, our guides show you how to choose, brief and check an AI consultant yourself.

Planning an AI project?

Our free project brief template helps you set out what you need before you speak to anyone, so you can compare consultants on the same terms.

Download the brief template