Using expert Q&A sites like AskWonder?

Hi there!

The consulting life is a lot about finding creative and pragmatic solutions to existing problems. This often requires different data sources, which is what probably led you to this question.

However, more important than finding the creative solution, is finding one you can trust and recommend to the most demanding clients.

And that is why you should not not rely on data sources that do not come from reliable providers (e.g. Nielsen, Kantar and other database providers) or experts with clear expertise on the topic (e.g. expert calls with professionals with proven experience in the area).

The experts could be external, for which you have to pay for, or can work for the client or your firm.

Hope this helps and have a great week.  

Me personally? Never.

At BCG I “used”:

1. BCG Labs/internal docs
2. Peers
3. Expert calls
4. Client/project docs
5. Knowledge Team
6. Google

Never use open, freely available external sources for confidential client & company work. Never leave any written digital trail- it can be easily traced back to you. You can anonymize details but it still remains risky. 

Rely on internal sources- peers, experts, internal publications & knowledge sharing etc. Most consulting firms have a very good internal infrastructure for this.

Hi there, 

This is the first time I hear about AskWonder. 

However, consulting firms usually have third-party providers who act as a link / intermediary to experts. You find about them in your intro training in the firm. It's a resource usually used for fast-paced projects like due diligence projects where cheaper or internal experts are harder to find. 

Best,

Cristian

Sources of insight can come from a broad range of sources.  You would be surprised how often its simple Google searches.  I do recall AskWonder being available at McKinsey in addition to the many other expert networks.

Hello!

It depends on the projects: in some zero, in some MANY. For instance, I did plenty in my M&A engagements. 

Cheers, 

Clara