Your Best Consultant Might Be the One Who’s Not Billing (Yet)
In consulting, there’s a saying:
“If they’re not billing, they’re costing.”
That’s technically true. But it misses something bigger.
At Intertech, we’ve come to realize that our most valuable consultants aren’t always the ones billing every hour. Sometimes, the people on the bench are driving the most important transformation in our business.
Right now, that transformation is AI.
Here’s how we’re using bench time strategically:
1. Training on AI tools and frameworks
Rather than rushing consultants into the next project, we give them structured time to learn tools like GitHub Copilot, ChatGPT, and AI-assisted test generation platforms. The result? They re-enter projects faster, more capable, and AI-enabled.
2. Standardizing AI in our dev process
We’re using bench cycles to build internal playbooks for applying AI—from proposal writing to automated documentation to code review. These aren’t “nice to haves.” They’re practical assets that increase velocity and quality across the board.
3. Prototyping with purpose
Benched consultants are experimenting with real-world use cases: generating scaffolding code, refactoring legacy modules, streamlining unit test creation, and integrating AI-driven analytics into apps. It’s hands-on R&D—without the overhead of a live project.
4. Supporting AI adoption across teams
Having AI-fluent consultants available helps us accelerate adoption across project teams. They’re building demos, advising PMs, and helping clients understand what’s possible. They’re our internal accelerators.
5. Staying ahead of client expectations
Clients are asking: “What’s your AI strategy?”
Our bench consultants are a big part of the answer. They’re not just staying billable—they’re making sure we stay relevant.
Bottom line?
A smart bench strategy isn’t just about cost control. It’s about innovation.
Done right, your non-billing consultants might be your most valuable team members—because they’re building the future you’ll soon be charging for.