1. Which phase of the real consulting project involves solving the case with client (just like during case interview)? 2. Are there any resources available to find the complete process used by MBBs to deliver project?

Hi Ganesh, 

In consulting, projects typically fall into two main categories:

1. Strategy Cases (typically 10-12 weeks): In these cases, the consultants develop the strategy with close collaboration and input from the client. The strategy usually goes through several iterations with the client before the final deliverable is presented.
2. Strategy + Implementation Cases (ranging from 12 weeks to a year or more): The strategy phase is similar to the first type, with the key difference that it may continue to evolve even after the implementation phase begins. In the implementation phase, consultants play more of a project management role, guiding and supporting the client on how to execute the strategy effectively.

There are also other types of projects, such as due diligence (typically 4-6 weeks), where client involvement is relatively minimal compared to strategy or implementation cases.

As for methodologies, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach—each project is unique, much like case interviews. There are books like The McKinsey Way that offer broad guidelines, but the reality of consulting approach is quite different and varies based on the specific project and client.

Hey! 

I would argue that the phase of the Problem-Solving or Analysis Phase resembles cases the most (from my experience). In this phase, you work closely with the client to define the problem, structure the analysis, and generate solutions. Just like in a case interview, hypothesis-driven thinking, data gathering, and iterative solution development are crucial. You engage with the client in workshops or discussions to ensure that the findings are aligned with the client's needs, mirroring the problem-solving approach used during interviews.

For a complete overview of how MBB firms deliver projects, while the firms don't release their full methodologies publicly, some resources provide insights. For instance, books like "The McKinsey Way" by Ethan Rasiel explain problem-solving and project delivery strategies. Additionally, frameworks like McKinsey’s 7S Framework, BCG’s Transformation Methodology, and Bain’s Results Delivery Framework offer perspectives on their structured approach to delivering projects, typically including phases such as Problem Definition, Data Gathering, Analysis, Recommendations, and Implementation. I also used consulting blogs & firm publications as resources that discuss methodologies and share case studies.

Good luck, Alessa

Hi there,

1. Essentially the whole project. A case represents a simplified and abbreviated client engagement, learning about the problem, structuring it, requesting data and analyzing it, synthesising the findings, thinking about solutions, and providing a recommendation at the end.
2. I have written a whole book about this topic. It's called Consulting Career Secrets and you can get it on Amazon. Essentially, it answers three questions:
   1. What is consulting? What do consultants do?
   2. Is consulting the right industry or job for you?
   3. How can you build a successful and sustainable career in consulting?

Cheers,

Florian

Hi Ganesh,

I would be happy to share my thoughts on your questions:

• First of all, a case study is just a simplified, anonymized (part of a) project. Therefore, in real consulting projects, you are constantly working with the client to develop the solutions.
• Moreover, while there are best practices for certain types of projects to guide you, every project is unique, so there is no standard process for project delivery.
• Lastly, what are your questions about? Will you be joining a consulting firm soon?

If you would like a more detailed discussion on your specific situation, please don't hesitate to contact me directly.

Best,

Hagen

1. It starts during the proposal stage and ends with the final report presentation or delivery (sometimes even later).

2. Not really. There's no cookie cutter approach, it will depend on the specific case.

The case interview is meant to be a highly simplified and condensed simulation of a client case. But it is highly, high simplified. 

Think of it rather as testing the skills that are helpful for what happens on the job. 

In terms of resources, there are a couple of books, but the full depth of problem solving is kept lock and key within the firms - after all, that is their IP.