Spec writing consultants

[fyreline]

Mike, I have no problem with your sharing my comments with your department . . . Realistically, my advice to anyone is not to post anything on the internet that you wouldn't put on a big billboard next to a busy freeway, with your name under it. There is also a good book called The Fire Apparatus Purchasing Guidebook by William C. Peters. It's about $40 and is available many places on the internet. Bill also offers a video on performing factory inspections. Those are good places to start. Take your time, and get it right. While the input of manufacturer's representatives can be helpful, don't let them write your specifications for you. I realize it's tough to do it all on your own, and that's where a good consultant can help. In your department's situation, the expense might be well justified. The first time a vendor sues your department because your specifications are "exclusionary" (because another manufacturer actually wrote them, or most of them)', the cost of that consultant will look minuscule. Contact a few of them, tell them what you want them to do, and ask them what they will charge. I won't speak for them on what they charge . . . But those who charge too much (or deliver too little) don't stay in business long. Stay safe, and again, good luck.