Hello, 

thanks a lot for the question. :) 

I would say the issue tree is the preferred way to structure the case. There are 3 main reasons for that: 

1) Higher flexibility → Since it is a way of structure your reasoning, it can easily be adapted to every kind case

2) Higher effectiveness in testing a specific preliminary hypothesis → It allows to build a structure more tailored to the specific business case and to the hypothesis you are testing

3) Better impression with the interviewer → It gives the positive impression that the candidate has a good business sense and he/she is not using the same framework for every case

Having saying that, I think it is important to clarify the things in common and the main differences between the issue tree and the conceptual framework (e.g., profitability framework): 

Things in common

• Origin: the “specific conceptual framework” concept is born from the more specific “issue tree” concept. They are not MECE and there is no conflict between the 2 terms. For instance, the profitability framework is just an example of the many possible issue trees. Generally speaking, we use the term “framework” to refer to a very specific and standardised issue tree (e.g., profitability framework)
• Main objective: test the initial preliminary hypothesis
• Top down structure: from general to details

Differences 

• Degree of standardisation: the issue tree, being a more general concept than the conceptual framework, allows for an higher level of flexility. In particular, the element of the overall structure (e.g., preliminary hypothesis; bucket testing the hypothesis etc…) are not already set

To conclude, I would strongly suggest to practice in the creation of very effective and specific issue trees. It is a good way to convey a strong positive impression to the interviewer at the beginning of the case. And as we all say… there is not a second chance to make a first good impression :) 

Do not hesitate to reach out me in case of further questions! I am currently offering a free coaching session.  

Good luck!

Matteo

(edited)

Hi there,

From my point of view, neither. 

Ideally you should apply first principles thinking here and develop a muscle to actually think through the cases individually rather than relying on set frameworks. It's obviously harder, but it's a not only a sure bet for the interview, it's also good training for the actual job when you'll get to do it. 

Hi there,

Quite frankly you should do the one that you are most comfortable with!

That said, I prefer a framework because you don't really have time to do a proper full issue tree. Additionally, if you do your framework right, it should “sound” like an issue true (each sub-bucket has a purpose/flow). If you're just listing out words/ideas you're doing frameworking wrong!