I couldn't get budget for a tool that I ended up telling an outside consultant about. They were able to get a PO for the tool, no problem. They then spent the

I couldn't get budget for a tool that I ended up telling an outside consultant about. They were able to get a PO for the tool, no problem. They then spent the next few months using said tool at what I'm sure was a very high hourly rate. Management never blinked. And they were apparently quite happy with the results the tool enabled. But respecting and approving an internal request for same? Forgetaboutit. Of course, they were "restructuring" the company. Internal employees had all become "cost centers" and doubtless, behind closed doors, "the enemy". Something important to understand: Much senior management has become a step or two away from -- akin to -- outside consultants. They come onboard to arbitrage short-term financial gains, often of a constrained nature. Then they move on. Paying expensive consultants is just fine -- preferable, even -- if it is part and parcel of making an end-run around employees towards said short-term goal and exit. They are birds of a feather. (And they will shit all over you.)