1. I'd like to see the most current and unbiased number of companies conducting biostatistical consulting, their geographic distribution, information on number of employees associate with the consulting business, and (what the heck) their confidential business information regarding how much they're really charging. OK, I'm going too far but I would LIKE to know. This section took a survey of consultant charges in 2005 but, even considering that everyone in the population is not a member of ASA, I suspect that the largest and most expensive statistical consulting firms did not report. I don't expect members to have this information in their back pocket but they may know where the most recent and informative reports can be found.
Background: I 'm using the SBA template for writing a business plan in anticipation of opening a one person biostatistical consulting firm. In particular, I was interested in demographics for our "industry." Biostatistical consulting is too small or diverse for there to be a NAICS code. This group has some good resources but I'm seldom satisfied with the quality of information I can find. My current writeup is too full of personal contacts and personal observations based on contracting for different demographics of statistical services. On the other hand, I'm providing my own seed capital and I have time before I really need a plan suitable for distribution to business concerns.
2. Bless you all for the contract templates!
Chuck
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Charles E. White (Chuck)
Senior Biostatistician
Charles E. White's Biostatistical Consulting
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