T&M SOW Solutions FAQ’s
Trying to decide if a T&M or SOW engagement is the right fit for your IT project?
You’re not alone. With so many moving parts—from timelines and budgets to team dynamics and deliverables—it’s important to choose a model that gives you the flexibility and control you need. This FAQ page was built with IT leaders like you in mind. We’ve answered the most common questions we hear from clients navigating these options, so you can move forward with clarity and confidence.
Control Over Talent Selection
1. Do we get to interview and approve each contractor before they start?
Yes. You have full control over vetting and selecting candidates.
2. Can we request resumes and shortlist candidates ourselves?
Absolutely. You can be as hands-on or hands-off as you prefer in the screening and shortlisting process.
3. What level of input do we have in selecting team members?
Complete input. Your feedback and criteria shape every step of the sourcing and selection process.
4. If someone isn’t a good fit, how quickly can they be replaced?
We aim for a seamless transition. In most cases, we can present replacement candidates within 24–72 hours, depending on the skill set.
5. Can we switch out team members mid-project if our needs change?
Yes. One of the benefits of the T&M SOW model is that you’re not locked into fixed roles, you can adapt your team as the project evolves.
Project & Team Management
6. Do we manage the contractors day to day?
Yes, unless you request a project manager or technical lead from us to help oversee tasks.
7. Can we assign tasks directly and track progress ourselves?
Yes. You have direct control over task assignment and can manage progress using your existing tools and workflows.
8. Is there a project manager from your side, or do we lead everything?
It’s your choice. We can provide a PM, technical lead, or simply supply the talent, depending on the bandwidth and expertise of your internal team.
9. Can we set priorities, schedules, and deliverables ourselves?
Yes. You retain ownership of project strategy and execution timelines.
10. Can your team work within Agile, Scrum, or Kanban environments?
Yes. Our contractors are accustomed to working in structured methodologies, and we can align with your preferred process.
Flexibility & Scalability
11. Can we scale the team up or down based on project needs?
Yes. The model is designed to scale with your needs.
12. What’s the process to bring in additional resources or reduce the team?
Just notify us. We can typically scale within days by leveraging our deep bench of pre-vetted talent.
13. Are there minimum hour or duration requirements?
No long-term commitment is required. We can support short-term sprints or extended initiatives.
14. Can we complete an assessment before committing to a full engagement?
Yes. Some clients start with an assessment to determine their project requirements before committing to a full project.
Legal & Compliance
15. Are we at risk of co-employment or misclassification issues?
No. The T&M SOW structure ensures we remain the employer of record, protecting you from co-employment risk.
16. Do you provide drug screen and background checks on your consultants?
Yes. All contractors are thoroughly screened and background-checked.
17. Do you carry liability insurance?
Yes. We carry general liability, E&O, and other necessary coverage to protect our clients.
Cost Management
18. Can we set a budget cap or weekly/monthly limits?
Yes. We can design billing to align with your budget cycles and put safeguards in place to avoid overages.
19. Do we only pay for the hours we approve?
Correct. You only pay for hours worked and approved, with no hidden fees or minimums.
20. Are there cost savings versus traditional consulting firms?
Yes. T&M SOW Solutions are typically able to save 30 – 50% compared to larger solutions firms, without sacrificing quality.
Delivery & Results
21. What happens if the project stalls or changes direction?
We’re flexible. Whether you need to pause, pivot, or reprioritize, our model adjusts with you.
22. Do you guarantee results or deliverables?
Our T&M SOW model keeps the client in charge of deliverables. We provide the talent needed to keep the project on time and under budget.
23. Can you help us build a POC before scaling the project?
Yes. We frequently support POC efforts.
Strategic Fit
24. How is this different from hiring a contractor through our MSP?
Our model gives you the power to interview and select the best candidates for your project and not get stuck with the next available person from the bench from the traditional MSP. You don’t pay inflated costs that are typically seen with a bench.
25. Can this support internal IT team bandwidth without adding headcount?
Yes. It’s ideal for bridging skill gaps, clearing backlogs, or accelerating delivery without permanent hires.
26. Will your team integrate with our internal team culture?
That’s a core part of our vetting process—finding not just the right skills, but the right culture fit.
27. How quickly can you start?
We can have a shortlist of vetted candidates for you to screen in as little as 24 hours. Our typical turnaround time from the start of talent search to onboarding is often 2 – 3 weeks.
Ready to dive deeper? Learn more about how our T&M SOW Solutions can help you deliver your projects on time, on budget, and with the right team in place.