Get Active in Our Amazing Community of Over 448,000 Peers!

Schedule mock interviews on the Meeting Board, join the latest community discussions in our Consulting Q&A and find like-minded Case Partners to connect and practice with!
Question merged
This question is read-only because it has been merged with Can I use the BCG matrix in case interviews with other consultancy companies?.

Is the BCG matrix propriety or public domain?

BCG Matrix improving profitability profitability analysis
Recent activity on Dec 11, 2017
2 Answers
2.7 k Views
Frank asked on Dec 08, 2017
Plan to practice twice a day starting on Nov. 28. Available 3 -5 pm and 7- 8:30 PM (New York time)

I did a case with another member of prep lounge that required the BCG matrix and formulae to position products in the matrix. Is the BCG matrix and the supporting formulae propriety to BCG or public domain that anyone can use? Is using the BCG matrix limited to BCG case interviews or do other firms use it as part of their case interviews?

Overview of answers

Upvotes
  • Upvotes
  • Date ascending
  • Date descending
Best answer
Francesco
Expert
Content Creator
replied on Dec 09, 2017
#1 Coach for Sessions (4.000+) | 1.500+ 5-Star Reviews | Proven Success (➡ InterviewOffers.com) | Ex BCG | 10Y+ Coaching

Hi Frank,

quoting a previous answer, theoretically you can use the BCG matrix in every interview (it’s public domain), however:

  1. It would be better to focus on the content of the framework without mentioning the name. If you refer to a specific name such as “BCG matrix”, the interviewer will think you have just memorized something and repeated it.
  2. You should personalize the framework connecting it to the specific goal of the case. The best way to do so would be to specify WHY you would like to use that particular framework.

As an example:

  • Bad: I would like to apply the BCG matrix here
  • Good: In order to understand better our client portfolio and how to generate additional €5M in revenues, I would like to analyse the positioning of each segment considering the growth rate and market share.

Hope this helps,
Francesco

Upvotes
Vlad
Expert
replied on Dec 11, 2017
McKinsey / Accenture Alum / Got all BIG3 offers / Harvard Business School

Hi,

Agree with Francesco. I can hardly imagine a situation when you really have to draw down a BCG matrix. Moreover, it may sound like a textbook approach.

Though feel free to use the concepts like "cash cow" in your analysis.

Best

Upvotes
How likely are you to recommend us to a friend or fellow student?
0
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
0 = Not likely
10 = Very likely