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Considering macro trends during hypothesis

Hi,

Shall we consider current real macro trends and apply them during hypothesizing? (like increasing e-commerce, healthy living, pet owning, start-ups etc...) 

Or we should stay in the limits of given case information and shouldn't raise the point that e-commerce can be growing unless it's given in the case. 

Thanks!  

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Top answer
edited on Sep 05, 2021
Former BCG | Case author for efellows book | Experience in 6 consultancies (Stern Stewart, Capgemini, KPMG, VW Con., Hor

on Sep 02, 2019
#1 Coach for Sessions (4.500+) | 1.500+ 5-Star Reviews | Proven Success: ➡ interviewoffers.com | Ex BCG | 10Y+ Coaching

Hi Anonymous,

after you presented your structure, you can make a hypothesis on which area is responsible for the problem/possible solution. However, you should always verify the hypothesis with data from the interviewer. You should never use information you may have about a sector and make assumptions without data.

Bad example

“Since I know e-commerce is booming, I would assume our client should look at growth there. Do we have any information on its capabilities in this area?”

Good example

“As we saw in the previous structure, one of the ways to grow the demand for our product is related to new distribution channels. My hypothesis is that we could grow via an online presence, since you told me our client doesn’t have an e-commerce shop. To verify this hypothesis, I would like to verify first if the e-commerce segment is attractive for the product of the client in terms of size and growth. Do we have any information on that?”

Best,

Francesco

Vlad
Coach
on Sep 01, 2019
McKinsey / Accenture Alum / Got all BIG3 offers / Harvard Business School

Hi,

There is no such process and Hypothesizing. It sounds more like guessing. You should have a structured approach to solving the problem and if Macro Trend is a logical part of your structure - why not?

More on the correct usage of the hypothesis here:

https://www.preplounge.com/en/consulting-forum/how-to-state-a-hypothesis-and-match-to-the-structure-1156

Best

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