CONSULTING
The Ask/Tell Matrix is a tool used to classify different types of consulting projects based on two factors:
The Ask/Tell Matrix is a tool used to classify different types of consulting projects based on two factors:
- Ask: How much of the solution is defined by the client?
- Tell: How much of the solution is defined by the consultant?
The four types of consulting according to the Ask/Tell Matrix are:
The four types of consulting according to the Ask/Tell Matrix are:
1. Expert Advice
1. Expert Advice
In an expert advice project, the client has a well-defined problem and is looking for the consultant to provide a solution. The consultant's role is to use their expertise to diagnose the problem and recommend a course of action.
In an expert advice project, the client has a well-defined problem and is looking for the consultant to provide a solution. The consultant's role is to use their expertise to diagnose the problem and recommend a course of action.
2. Collaborative Problem Solving
2. Collaborative Problem Solving
In a collaborative problem solving project, the client and consultant work together to define the problem and develop a solution. The consultant's role is to provide guidance and expertise, but the client ultimately owns the solution.
In a collaborative problem solving project, the client and consultant work together to define the problem and develop a solution. The consultant's role is to provide guidance and expertise, but the client ultimately owns the solution.
3. Process Improvement
3. Process Improvement
In a process improvement project, the consultant helps the client to improve their existing processes. This may involve identifying and eliminating inefficiencies, developing new procedures, or implementing new technology.
In a process improvement project, the consultant helps the client to improve their existing processes. This may involve identifying and eliminating inefficiencies, developing new procedures, or implementing new technology.
4. Transformation
4. Transformation
In a transformation project, the consultant helps the client to make major changes to their organization, such as expanding into a new market, launching a new product line, or implementing a new business model. The consultant's role is to help the client develop a strategy for change and to manage the implementation process.
In a transformation project, the consultant helps the client to make major changes to their organization, such as expanding into a new market, launching a new product line, or implementing a new business model. The consultant's role is to help the client develop a strategy for change and to manage the implementation process.
The Ask/Tell Matrix can be used by consultants and clients to select the right type of consulting project for their needs. It can also be used to manage expectations and ensure that both parties are clear on their roles and responsibilities.
The Ask/Tell Matrix can be used by consultants and clients to select the right type of consulting project for their needs. It can also be used to manage expectations and ensure that both parties are clear on their roles and responsibilities.
Here are some examples of each type of consulting project:
Here are some examples of each type of consulting project:
Expert Advice:
Expert Advice:
- A company hires a consultant to help them choose a new enterprise resource planning (ERP) system.
- A government agency hires a consultant to assess the impact of a new policy proposal.
- A non-profit organization hires a consultant to develop a marketing plan for a new fundraising campaign.
Collaborative Problem Solving:
Collaborative Problem Solving:
- A manufacturer and a retailer work together with a consultant to develop a new supply chain management system.
- A hospital and a health insurance company work together with a consultant to improve the quality of care for patients with chronic diseases.
- A school district and a teachers' union work together with a consultant to develop a new teacher evaluation system.
Process Improvement:
Process Improvement:
- A company hires a consultant to help them reduce the time it takes to develop new products.
- A government agency hires a consultant to help them improve the efficiency of their customer service operation.
- A non-profit organization hires a consultant to help them reduce their administrative costs.
Transformation:
Transformation:
- A company hires a consultant to help them launch a new digital business unit.
- A government agency hires a consultant to help them implement a new performance management system.
- A non-profit organization hires a consultant to help them merge with another organization.
The Ask/Tell Matrix is a simple but powerful tool that can be used to understand and manage different types of consulting projects. By understanding the four types of consulting projects, consultants and clients can better align their expectations and achieve their desired outcomes.
The Ask/Tell Matrix is a simple but powerful tool that can be used to understand and manage different types of consulting projects. By understanding the four types of consulting projects, consultants and clients can better align their expectations and achieve their desired outcomes.