laffinbuddha, that's the sad part. I do believe that there are many of us who is currently working on this and is probably scrolling through this page left and right, but don't want to drop a few cents. They probably are even laughing at us, hah!

Consultancies are in it to make money, so you have to be careful on who you want to work with. Rest is your luck. so it looks like you are trying and asking them for references and what not. good for you. Hopefully, someone with idea about your subject will drop a few words here. good luck!