Each client has its own needs and situation, so it's necessary to define an approach reflecting client's unique circumstances. In this respect, McKinsey first focuses on clearly understanding what a client really needs. We conduct in-depth interviews with top management to understand the current state of company. Based upon such understanding, we draw up a proposal comprising project approach, methodology, deliverables, and a manning plan. McKinsey makes it a rule to conduct studies only when it's convinced there are improvement opportunities that can bring about substantial effects to clients.
A project team is composed of consultants possessing consulting techniques suitable for the project, relevant industry experience and expertise. Each team has a partner who leads the project, keeps close relationships with client's top management, and has an ultimate responsibility for the quality and level of deliverables.
In most cases, client's personnel work side by side with McKinsey consultants, either full-time or part-time. Client's employees assigned to the project team are mostly elite employees and receive extensive McKinsey training throughout the project.
McKinsey uses economic analysis together with assumption-based problem solving methods. We analyze economics and business environment, collect data in and out of company, observe current operations and managers to understand the company's capabilities and business philosophy. McKinsey conducts analyses with proven approaches and methodologies and makes sure they are completed on time. Piloting helps a project team identify effects of future changes and draw up measures to cope with them. Our role in implementation varies from detailed planning and scheduling to implementation support, depending on the client's requests.
We believe that development of effective solutions for clients is possible only when the relationship between client and consultant is based upon trust. In this respect, McKinsey sticks to the principle of confidentiality regarding information obtained from the client.
Expertise and experiences accumulated in various industry and functional areas over past decades are structured into practices by industry and function.
Industry practices
- Automotive & Assembly
- Banking & Securities
- Chemicals
- Packaged Goods
- Electric Power & Natural Gas
- Emerging Market/Banking
- Technology
- Insurance
- Media & Entertainment
- Metals & Mining
My two years spent in the BA program taught me the discipline to break down and analyze problems, interact with all levels of management, and the courage to lead clients often as the most junior member of the taskforce.
