Guidance expected regarding a job change

[Pad Ven]

Hi all.
I am Pad and I am new to this forum and I need some guidance regarding a job change I wish to make. I am currently working as a software developer in a product development company in Telecom domain. I have 8+ years of experience. I have got an offer from a company that is into consulting model. I have been averse to consulting model till now, but given a wish to change job as soon as possible, I am forced to think about this switch. I wish to get some guidance from this forum about the following (by the way, the salary is pretty good, although I focus on all aspects before a job change, especially because I have made 3 job hops during my 8+ years career):

1. Is switching from product development background to consulting model something that I need to think again? Will I be able to switch back to product development model later, if needed, without much difficulty?

2. This new company does not depend on hierarchies. So I may join as an "Application developer" and continued to be called the same even after say 12 or 13 years. Though this company may have sound reasons to have such policy, will it be a disadvantage to me in the industry if I am interested in professional growth as well (managerial ladder etc.)? Will I be perceived in the industry as someone who hasn't had professional growth as much as I should have?

Thanks and regards,
Pad

[arulk pillai]

Some other aspects to look at --> http://java-success.blogspot.com/2007/10/how-to-choose-from-multiple-javaj2ee.html

The most important thing is that you should enjoy what your doing and it should align with your career aspirations & objectives.

[Pad Ven]

Hi Arul,
Thank you very much for your reply. I had a look at the URL you sent me and it was very informative.

Thanks,
Pad