Start a case (Consultant)
1) Define the case
Clarify the context
Define the scope
Define success
Internal and external situation the client is in
Examples
When did the problem starts to happen?
Recent
Long term
Is the problem related to a particular part of the system?
What should be included in the project?
Any constraint?
Budget
What does the problem needs to be solved by?
Time
By how much (performance increase/error rate drops)
Any other targets
2) Structure the problem
Design an issue tree
Each node should be a question (not a topic i.e. noun)
References:
Ace the Case - Consulting Prep
3) Connect the dots
Everything you hear has a flow
Do not look at them as isolated issues
Define the strength and weakness of the client/system
4) Add perspective
An implementation of the solution, not just an analysis
What will the implementation/execution mean?
What will be the risks?
How much resources needed?
Time
Money
Skills
What are the changes that will occur?
Mind set
Culture
Behaviours