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Building a conceptual issue tree

issue tree
New answer on Oct 31, 2023
8 Answers
565 Views
Song
Premium
asked on Oct 30, 2023
Case with table/chart or quant please! Welcome in-depth, candid feedback

Hi everyone! I am trying to refine my skills to build a conceptual issue tree. I see why it is important, and I would love to proficiently use it, but I see myself being able to build a mediocre one. What steps can I take to enhance my proficiency in constructing more effective conceptual issue trees? While I can create algebraic issue trees, which are simpler, I recognize the need for improving my skills in this area. I've already studied the theory, but I'm seeking guidance on how to develop this skill in real life, preferably with access to good examples. Do you have any recommendations to help me achieve this? Happy casing! Thanks in advance! 

(edited)

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Sidi
Expert
updated an answer on Oct 30, 2023
McKinsey Senior EM & BCG Consultant | Interviewer at McK & BCG for 7 years | Coached 350+ candidates secure MBB offers

Hello Song!

I suggest to approach this differently, and I assure you it will be much more beneficial for both you and anyone else who might be reading:

Could you share a few instances where you find it challenging to construct "issue trees"? Additionally, please add what you believe might be a good solution. This way, we can offer specific advice and tips to help enhance your abilities. Trust me, this practical method of discussion will be much more effective than a theoretical one. :)

Cheers, Sidi

---------------------------

EDIT (based on Song's answer below):

Hi Song! The most important prinicple is to always try to start your thinking as HIGH as possible. So if you ask yourself "How to grow revenues from X?", then the highest possible level would be two branches:

Branch 1: We can grow revenues with what we are already doing (e.g., selling food at restaurants)

Branch 2: We can grow revenue with NEW activities (e.g., selling other products in our restaurants, generating revenues from our assets (e.g., renting out restaurants for special events), selling signature products outside of our restaurants (e.g., branded spices or sauces that can be bought in supermarkets), etc.

Under Branch 1, you can further disaggregate into 1a (increase revenues from current activities in our curent locations), and 1b (increase revenues from current activities in NEW locations - here is where opening new restaurants would fall into).

And so on... You see how this is just based on PURE LOGIC? :)

Cheers, Sidi

(edited)

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Song on Oct 30, 2023

Hello Sidi, I wanted to express my appreciation for your helpful tip. While I had an answer that made sense to me, I was frustrated that I couldn't come up with it on my own. I had a question about the growth prospects of a Mexican restaurant chain that currently owns 20 establishments. Initially, I approached this question by considering factors like the number of tickets and the revenue per restaurant, breaking them down into subcategories. However, I realized that I had overlooked a significant aspect – the potential for expanding the chain by opening new restaurants to increase overall revenue. I also understand there is an established framework I could use (growth framework, new market/new product), but I was wondering if there's an even more fundamental, systemic method beyond just remembering these ideas and adapting them. Best regards, Songyi

Sidi on Oct 30, 2023

Hi Song! The most important prinicple is to always try to start your thinking as HIGH as possible. So if you ask yourself "How to grow revenues from X?", then the highest possible level would be two branches: Branch 1: We can grow revenues with what we are already doing (e.g., selling food at restaurants) Branch 2: We can grow revenue with NEW activities (e.g., selling other products in our restaurants, generating revenues from our assets (e.g., renting out restaurants for special events), selling signature products outside of our restaurants (e.g., branded spices or sauces that can be bought in supermarkets), etc. Under Branch 1, you can further disaggregate into 1a (increase revenues from current activities in our curent locations), and 1b (increase revenues from current activities in NEW locations - here is where opening new restaurants would fall into). And so on... You see how this is just based on PURE LOGIC? :)

Raj
Expert
Content Creator
replied on Oct 30, 2023
FREE 15MIN CONSULTATION | #1 Strategy& / OW coach | >70 5* reviews |90% offers ⇨ prep-success.super.site | MENA, DE, UK

I understand your desire to enhance your proficiency in constructing more effective conceptual issue trees. Building a strong issue tree is indeed a crucial skill in case interviews. As a seasoned strategy consultant, I can provide you with some guidance on how to develop this skill in real-life scenarios.

Practice with real cases: One of the best ways to improve your issue tree construction skills is through practice. Work on solving real case studies and challenge yourself to create clear and comprehensive issue trees. This will help you develop a better understanding of how to structure and prioritize the key issues.

Analyze case examples: Study and analyze case examples from reputable sources, such as consulting firm websites or case interview preparation materials. Pay close attention to how experienced consultants construct their issue trees and identify the key drivers and sub-issues. This will give you insights into effective approaches and help you learn from the best.

Seek feedback: Engage in case practice sessions with peers or experienced consultants who can provide you with constructive feedback on your issue tree construction. Their insights and suggestions can help you identify areas for improvement and refine your approach.

Break down complex problems: Practice breaking down complex problems into smaller, more manageable components. This will help you develop the ability to identify the underlying drivers and sub-issues that contribute to the overall problem.

Use frameworks as a starting point: While conceptual issue trees are more flexible and tailored to the specific case, frameworks can serve as a useful starting point. Familiarize yourself with common frameworks and adapt them to the case at hand. This will help you structure your thinking and ensure you cover all relevant aspects.

Think logically and hierarchically: When constructing an issue tree, think logically and hierarchically. Start with the main problem statement and then break it down into sub-issues and further sub-divisions. Ensure that each level of the tree is mutually exclusive and collectively exhaustive.

Remember, practice and exposure to a variety of case scenarios are key to improving your issue tree construction skills. Continuously challenge yourself and seek opportunities to refine your approach.

I hope these recommendations help you enhance your proficiency in constructing more effective conceptual issue trees. Best of luck with your case preparation, and I'm confident that with practice and dedication, you will excel in your interviews.

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Eva updated an answer on Oct 30, 2023
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Eva on Oct 30, 2023
Song on Oct 30, 2023

This is very helpful, thanks!

Willms on Jan 09, 2024

Send me a direct message @e***********@g****.com

Frederic
Expert
Content Creator
replied on Oct 31, 2023
ex Jr. Partner McKinsey |Senior Interviewer| Real Feedback & Free Homework between sessions|Harvard Coach|10+ Experience

Hi Song, ping me a DM for 2-3 atypical real case questions. They are more common these days. Warm regards, Frederic 

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Ian
Expert
Content Creator
replied on Oct 31, 2023
#1 BCG coach | MBB | Tier 2 | Digital, Tech, Platinion | 100% personal success rate (8/8) | 95% candidate success rate

Hi there,

Definitely something that is built out best in casing!

Additionally, take a look at the 2 cases in this article, and the associated videos, to see how I drive a case forward using an issue tree:

https://www.preplounge.com/en/articles/candidate-led-cases-what-to-expect-and-example-cases

This case will also help show you issue trees (wait for my candidate feedback):

https://www.preplounge.com/en/management-consulting-cases/candidate-led-usual-style/intermediate/bcg-bain-vets2u-healthcare-based-case-with-video-solution-305

 

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Cristian
Expert
Content Creator
replied on Oct 30, 2023
#1 rated MBB & McKinsey Coach

Amazing question!

Also an impossible one to answer in a Q&A. 

Basically, if you've gotten comfortable with typical structures. The next stage is to get to the actual skills that consultants use - which is first principles structuring. 

You need to be able to create structures on the spot, tailored to the specific prompt that you were given and independent from typical patterns. 

I usually run a structuring session with my candidates that is specifically focused on how to develop these structures regardless of the actual context of the case. 

Here is also a guide you can use as a starting point on different structuring techniques:


Best,
Cristian

———————————————

Practicing for interviews? Check out my latest case based on a first-round MBB interview >>> SoyTechnologies  

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Moritz
Expert
Content Creator
updated an answer on Oct 30, 2023
ex-McKinsey EM & Interviewer | 7/8 offer rate for 4+ sessions | 90min sessions with FREE exercises & videos

Hi there,

This is a BIG area and a bit of coaching can help you A LOT here. 

The key is to differentiate between an issue tree (McKinsey) and an actionable framework (other firms), which are different in nature. The issue tree is all about hypothesizing reasons for x, whereas the framework is all about solving a problem x. Those are two very different things, which candidates often aren't aware of, leading to really suboptimal responses. 

I run dedicated sessions with supporting video materials + exercises in case you're interested. This has helped a lot of people ‘click’ and really up their performance in this area.

Best of luck!

Moritz

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
>> Need a senior McKinsey coach? See my profile in a nutshell
>> Need real McKinsey cases? See two real examples with Zero Carbon Mine (hard) & Car Convenience (Intermediate + brand new)

(edited)

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Alberto
Expert
Content Creator
replied on Oct 31, 2023
Ex-McKinsey Associate Partner | +15 years in consulting | +200 McKinsey 1st & 2nd round interviews

Hi Song,

Happy to help you here, just send me a message.

Best,

Alberto

Check out my latest case based on a real MBB interview: Sierra Springs

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Sidi gave the best answer

Sidi

McKinsey Senior EM & BCG Consultant | Interviewer at McK & BCG for 7 years | Coached 350+ candidates secure MBB offers
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