How to create consulting decks like McKinsey Consultants

Importance of Consulting Decks

Consulting decks play a crucial role in the consulting industry as they serve as a means for consultants to effectively communicate their findings, recommendations, and strategies to clients. These consulting decks are typically data-driven and include analysis, visuals, and insights to help clients understand complex information and make informed decisions. While the structure and formatting may vary between consulting firms such as McKinsey, BCG, or Bain, the principles remain similar.

Role of Business Consulting Firms

Business consulting firms help shape success of global companies. Top firms like McKinsey, Bain, Boston Consulting Group, and Deloitte known for strategic advice, analytical approach, and industry knowledge. McKinsey has skilled consultants for tackling business challenges and driving growth across industries. Firms like McKinsey offer insights to optimize performance. Top consulting firms have a strong track record in helping organizations improve performance. Management consulting firms help businesses enhance performance and reach goals. Business management consulting firms focus on advising businesses on management practices like finance, HR, and marketing.

Basic guidelines for structuring consulting decks and key sections in a McKinsey presentation should be covered. This article explores the elements of an MBB-standard slide deck: structure, components, and formatting tips. When making a slide deck for strategy consulting, structure it clearly. Define the objective, build a compelling argument, and create the body slides to support your points. Write an executive summary with key takeaways. Review the deck for clarity before finalizing. Decks for corporate or management consulting are detailed and data-heavy, crucial for decisions.

They differ from keynotes or design presentations. In consulting, spreadsheets and slides are vital for client communication during pitches, updates, and results. Creating a presentation requires a clear storyline. Start by outlining sections and all action titles. Print slides or use Slide Sorter in PowerPoint to check the flow. Write the storyline in a doc, focusing on action titles and supporting data. Keep a library of past cases and presentations for inspiration and saving time.

The structure of a McKinsey Presentation

When creating a presentation for McKinsey, it is important to follow a specific structure. A typical McKinsey presentation consists of five main sections: 1. Front page, 2. Executive summary, 3. Body of slides, 4. Recommendation/next steps, and 5. Appendix. Each section serves a specific purpose and contributes to the overall effectiveness of the presentation. Let us see each each section in detail.

1. Frontpage: The front page sets the tone with a concise title in less than 10 words. It answers, “What is the presentation about?” An optional headline elaborates, and branding reflects the organization.

2. Executive summary: The executive summary, or “At A Glance,” is the first slide of a presentation and is usually the most time-consuming to create. Consulting firms such as McKinsey, Bain, and BCG commonly use the Situation-Complication-Resolution (SCR) Framework for their summaries, offering a structured approach to convey the main storyline of the presentation. The executive summary serves as a snapshot of key initiatives in a strategic plan, company capabilities in a business proposal, customer profile, business updates in review meetings, or simply a project summary. Purpose: Quick overview of presentation, key insights, and recommendations.

3. Body of slides: Let’s start by taking a look at the way McKinsey consultants create individual slides. When creating a slide, it is important to include three main parts namely 1. Action Title, 2. Sub-Headings, and 3. Slide Body. Action title should show key implication of slide. Subheadings outline the data. Slide body contains data, visuals, or a footer. Ensure title relates to body & only relevant info included.

i. Action title: In management consulting, use action titles for concise slide main takeaways. Important when presenting to busy executives. Action titles help audience grasp key message without detailed analysis. Clear, concise slide titles crucial for presentation storyline. Action titles summarize main conclusions and analysis for audience understanding. Ensure cohesive, readable story.

ii. Subheadings: Subheadings summarize the data used to support the main point or add context to the main takeaway. They should be brief and to the point. Headlines, on the other hand, are a 10-word description that further supplements or explains the context of the slide or provides units of data.

iii. Slide body – Key elements to include: To effectively communicate insights, a clear and concise slide body is crucial. The main insight in the title should be supported by relevant, simple information. Avoid including all data; focus on facts that support the key insight. The slide body presents most of the content, organized in a captivating way for an engaging presentation. The main goal of a slide deck is to present data in an easy-to-understand and visually appealing way. In a presentation, data can be quantitative (shown with charts) or qualitative (represented with diagrams and concept maps).

iv. Using of Charts in individual slides: When making slides, charts visually represent data. Types include bar/column, line, percentage, Mekko, scatter, and waterfall. Each chart family has unique features selected based on the data presented.

a. Legend: A legend in a chart provides info about the metrics. It appears as a box to the right or left of the graph.

b. Bubble (or callout): A bubble, or callout, is a message with extra info attached to an element. It highlights what’s needed in analysis.

c. Stickers: Stickers in presentations give extra info, at top right of slides, as notes. Some include ‘For Discussion’ for controversial data or statements needing audience input. ‘Preliminary’ and ‘Highly preliminary’ stickers used for slides not yet final. ‘Indicative’ implies numbers not completely accurate but give direction or overall picture. ‘Illustrative’ used to show data not precise, but demonstrate relationship among variables.

v. Date: The creation date on slides gives context, crucial for internal sharing. It shows timeliness and relevance for viewers.

vi. Footnote: A footnote is extra info at the bottom of a page for additional context or details not needed for presentation, but can be referenced.

vii. Page numbers and On-page trackers: Page numbers & on-page trackers help readers follow presentations, referencing specific sections easily. Footnotes cite sources, lending credibility & giving credit to authors, aiding further research.

4. Conclusion/Recommendation: The ‘Take Action’ or ‘Recommendation’ section concludes by providing solutions for identified issues. It includes slides with quantitative and qualitative data, an implementation plan, and immediate next steps for the client to take action. To make effective recommendations, follow three guidelines. 1. Group recommendations into categories for reader understanding. 2. Label or number groups and recommendations for structure and coherence. 3. Use action words in active voice to increase impact and actionability.

5. Appendix: Maintaining a clear main deck involves including supporting documentation in the appendix. The appendix, placed at the end, includes extra slides and information not in the pitch. It’s optional and provides detailed data, process clarifications, charts, and testimonials for research.

Managing the Content Flow

Consulting is crucial for business success, offering expert guidance. Management consulting advises on performance improvement, while business consulting targets specific areas like marketing, operations, and finance. Consulting firms provide tailored services to meet client needs. IT consultants offer tech solutions for business success in a digital world. Top management consulting firms use a structured approach for information flow within slides. Horizontal flow organizes ideas logically, while Vertical Flow influences slide design. Creating slides involves managing content flow by starting with the title, gathering supporting data, and iterating for cohesive storytelling. The Content and Exhibits section is crucial for presentation quality. Maintain smooth flow in each slide and the entire deck for engagement. Two main flows: Vertical and Horizontal.

1. Vertical flow: The vertical flow concept is used in slide design, focusing on each slide’s purpose and data significance. The Pyramid principle structures slides for content organization in a MECE manner.

a. The Pyramid Principle: The Pyramid Principle is a method for creating a well-organized storyline with evidence and data. It’s like an Issue Tree, starting with an introduction stating the issue and answer, and supporting arguments. This method provides a logical presentation of information.

b. MECE: MECE stands for “Mutually Exclusive Collectively Exhaustive.” It breaks down items or info into small, distinct parts without overlap or gaps. Each slide should have a key message, main arguments, and sub-arguments with supporting data like charts. Rather than a long list of bullets, group them into categories with sub-arguments, creating a MECE and strategic structure for the presentation.

2. Horizontal flow

Horizontal flow: storytelling technique for cohesive slide deck. Organize ideas chronologically to create flow. Two steps: draft data by sketching ideas in order, then create slides based on sketch. Consultants create slides or delegate design to specialized team. In consulting, “storyline” means the structure of a slide deck. McKinsey, Bain, and BCG customize it for each use case. Consulting storylines usually follow an SCR framework with three main components:

a. Situation: The situation includes initial circumstances or context surrounding the issue. It covers current state, background info, and factors for understanding. It may focus on an opportunity or threat.

b. Complication: In a situation, a complication is a challenge or problem that needs attention. It might be an unexpected obstacle, impeding impediment, or significant hurdle requiring strategic resolution.

c. Resolution: A resolution is a proposed solution to a complication or problem. It outlines steps to be taken, resources needed, and other details to overcome challenges and achieve success.

Key aspects in building a slide deck content

i. Crafting effective storyline: When making a consulting slide deck, avoid errors like no clear plan leading to disorganized delivery. Also, establish a hypothesis for analysis and recommendations. Align with manager and lead with answer, not just analysis. Organize document logically to convey message clearly. Avoid common work planning mistakes to create polished consulting slide deck for lasting impact.

ii. Consistent Formatting: Key aspects to pay attention to include consistent formatting – same PowerPoint template, font, font size, chart and textbox colors. Important details are chart titles, axis titles, legends, sources, footnotes, page numbers, and client’s logo. Avoid mistakes and maintain consistency for a professional and appealing consulting slide deck.

iii. Professionalism: Top mistake: overcrowding slides with info can overwhelm audience. Focus on strong action titles. Use relevant visuals to avoid detracting from message. Consistent formatting key for professional appearance. Don’t overlook essential details. Avoid unprofessional visuals that weaken message. Avoid common mistakes for compelling slide deck showcasing consulting expertise.

7 amazing tips for crafting consulting decks

1. Adopt a top-down perspective when developing your presentation
2. Begin with a Ghost Deck to establish the structure and flow
3. Use concise and professional language throughout your content
4. Maintain a Vertical Flow within individual slides and a Horizontal Flow across the entire deck
5. Ensure all information presented is supported by reliable data
6. Be specific and detail-oriented when crafting titles for each slide
7. Include clear measurement units and source citations for all charts and data points

Formatting tips – Consulting decks

Consulting firms create presentations by first identifying the main solution or answer, then organizing supporting arguments in a logical order. They begin by understanding client needs, gathering data, and analysing the problem. Next, they design visually appealing slides and craft a clear, compelling narrative with concise content. The final presentation is tailored to the client’s objectives, ensuring clarity and impact with engaging visuals and often interactive elements.

i. Slide design training: When creating a consulting presentation, follow professional guidelines for slide formatting. Firms like McKinsey, Bain, and BCG are known for compelling presentations that structure slides effectively. Rigorous training in slide design and formatting is crucial for great results.

ii. Consistent Slides: When making consulting decks, consultants must retain high formatting standards. This involves keeping bullet points, spacing, and details accurate and consistent. One approach is duplicating slides and modifying elements. Another is copying elements to new slides to keep their position. Bold formatting highlights key points, attracting readers. Consistent color schemes, fonts, and sizes create a cohesive look.

iii. Design scheme: The specific format scheme varies based on the consulting firm or client’s preferences. Sometimes the client gives a template for the firm to insert data. It’s important to keep alignment and leave margins on slides.

iv. Visual content strategy: Slide text must be clear, concise, and organized. Avoid unnecessary words. Use bullets over numbers. Keep titles short with a consistent font size. Use a simple color palette sparingly for emphasis. Establish a color hierarchy, stick to one or two fonts. Always use ‘PowerPoint Guides’ to view margins in design view. Enhance text slides with icons, replacing bullets with meaningful icons. Use consistent bold icon style. Avoid fancy graphics and animations; they distract from the main message. Add slide numbers and sources for credibility. Use call-outs or highlights to emphasize key points. Keep colors, fonts, and layout consistent for a professional look.

v. Alignment: Key aspect: Content alignment is crucial. Consistent alignment across slides is key – for titles, subheadings, logos, and page numbers. A master template aids in alignment accuracy. Proper line spacing enhances readability.

Think-cell plugin for effective charts in PowerPoint

The Think-cell plugin is a powerful tool that is widely used by management consultants to create visually appealing charts in PowerPoint presentations. It offers a variety of chart types, allowing consultants to choose the most suitable chart for their data. Some of the popular chart types available in Think-cell include bar charts, waterfall charts, and Gantt charts. With the help of Think-cell, consultants can create effective and professional-looking charts to enhance their presentations.

12 amazing charts created using think-cell in consulting decks

1. Waterfall Chart

A waterfall chart is a visual representation of how an initial value is affected by a series of positive and negative values. It is commonly used to show the cumulative effect of positive and negative changes over time. It is particularly useful for analyzing financial data and understanding the impact of various factors on a final outcome.

2. Gantt Chart

A Gantt chart is a visual tool used to plan, schedule, and track projects. It provides a timeline view of tasks, their dependencies, and their progress. Gantt charts are commonly used in project management to help teams stay organized, allocate resources, and meet deadlines.

 

 

3. Mekko Chart / Marimekko chart / Mosaic Plot

A Mekko Chart, also known as a Marimekko Chart, is a type of chart that combines a bar chart and a stacked bar chart to display data in two dimensions. It is commonly used to show the distribution of different variables across categories and can be helpful in analyzing market share, sales data, and other business metrics.

 

 

 

4. Scatter and Bubble Chart

Scatter and Bubble charts are used to display and compare data points on a two-dimensional graph. They are commonly used in statistics and data analysis to show the relationship between two variables. Scatter charts show individual data points as dots on the graph, while bubble charts add an additional dimension by varying the size of the dots to represent a third variable. These charts are useful for identifying patterns, trends, and correlations in the data.

5. Pie Chart

A pie chart is a circular graphical representation that is used to display data in proportions or percentages. It is commonly used to show the distribution of a whole into its individual parts. Pie charts are useful for comparing different categories or showing the relationship between parts and the whole. They are often used in business presentations, market research, and data analysis.

 

 

 

6. Line Chart

Line charts are used to display data trends over time. They are particularly useful for showing the progression of data points and identifying patterns or changes in the data. Line charts are commonly used in various fields such as finance, economics, and scientific research to visualize data and make informed decisions based on the trends observed.

 

 

 

7. Clustered Chart

A clustered chart is a type of chart that is used to compare multiple data sets or categories. It is commonly used to show the relationship between different variables or to compare data over time. Clustered charts are particularly useful for visualizing data in a clear and organized manner, allowing for easy comparison and analysis.

 

8. 100% Chart

A 100% chart is a visual representation that shows the distribution of a whole into its individual parts. It is commonly used to display percentages or proportions of different categories or variables. This chart helps to easily compare the relative sizes or contributions of each category to the whole.

9. Stacked Column and Bar Chart

Stacked column and bar charts are used to compare the total sizes of different categories, while also showing the composition of each category. They are commonly used to visualize data that has multiple sub-categories or to show the progression of a variable over time.

 

 

 

10. Area Chart

An area chart is a type of chart that is used to display quantitative data over time. It is commonly used to show the trend or pattern of data over a specific period. Area charts are particularly useful for comparing multiple data sets and identifying the overall distribution of values. They are often used in finance, economics, and other fields where tracking changes over time is important.

 

 

 

11. Area 100% Chart

The Area 100% Chart is a visual representation that shows the distribution of a whole into its various parts. It is commonly used to compare the proportions or percentages of different categories within a dataset. This chart helps to easily understand the relative sizes of each category and their contribution to the whole.

 

12. Butterfly chart

A Butterfly chart is used to compare two sets of data side by side. It is often used to show the before and after effects of a particular event or action. The chart is divided into four sections, with the middle section representing the baseline data and the outer sections representing the two sets of data being compared. This type of chart is useful for visualizing changes and trends over time.

 

 

10 creative ideas of data visualization used in Consulting decks

1. Chord Diagram

Chord diagrams are used to visualize relationships and connections between different entities or categories. They are often used in data analysis, network analysis, and social sciences to show the flow of information, interactions, or connections between different variables or groups.

Image source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chord_diagram_(mathematics)

 

2. Sunburst chart

A sunburst chart is a visualization tool that is used to display hierarchical data in a circular format. It is particularly useful for showing the proportions of different categories within a larger category. Sunburst charts are commonly used in data analysis, business presentations, and information visualization.

 

3. Radial Bar chart

A radial bar chart is a type of data visualization that is used to display categorical data in a circular format. It is particularly useful for comparing multiple categories or variables at a glance. The length of each bar represents the value of the category, and the bars are arranged in a circular pattern around a central point. This type of chart is often used to show proportions, percentages, or rankings.

4. Nightingale Rose chart

Nightingale Rose chart, also known as a polar area diagram, is a visualization tool used to display data in a circular format. It is commonly used in healthcare to show the distribution of different causes of mortality or morbidity. The chart is divided into segments, with each segment representing a category or variable. The length of each segment corresponds to the magnitude of the variable being measured, allowing for easy comparison and analysis of data.

Image source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Nightingale_Rose_Chart.png

 

5. Parallel Coordinates Plot

 

Parallel Coordinates Plots are used to visualize and analyze multivariate data. They are particularly useful for identifying patterns and relationships between multiple variables. This type of plot allows for the comparison of different data points across multiple dimensions, making it a valuable tool in data analysis and visualization.

Image source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Parallel_coordinates

6. Histogram Chart

A histogram chart is used to visually represent the distribution of data. It displays the frequency of data within specific intervals or bins. Histogram charts are commonly used in statistics and data analysis to understand the shape, spread, and central tendency of a dataset. They are particularly useful for identifying patterns, trends, and outliers in data.

Image source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Histogram

7. Frequency Table: A frequency table is a helpful tool for organizing data in a clear and concise way. It includes two columns, one listing the possible outcomes and the other listing the frequency of each outcome observed in a sample. By using a frequency table, it becomes easier to identify and analyze patterns and trends in the data.

8. Treemap: A treemap is a visual representation of hierarchical data that uses nested rectangles. Each rectangle represents a different level of the hierarchy, and the size and color of the rectangle convey the relative size or significance of the data it represents. Treemaps are commonly used to visualize complex data sets such as financial data and website traffic.

9. Bullet Graph: A bullet graph is a visual tool used to track progress towards a specific goal or target. It was created by Stephen Few as a more effective alternative to traditional bar charts. The graph consists of a horizontal bar that represents the target or goal, and a vertical line that indicates the current progress. To provide additional context and information, the graph also incorporates color coding and other visual elements.

10. Funnel Chart: A funnel chart is a visual representation commonly used to illustrate different stages in a process, particularly in sales pipelines. The chart takes the shape of a funnel, with the widest part at the top representing the initial stage and the narrowest part at the bottom representing the final stage. Funnel charts are valuable tools for identifying potential bottlenecks or inefficiencies within a process.

10 creative ideas used in building professional layouts for consulting decks

Online consulting is a fast-growing industry that allows clients to receive professional advice remotely for convenience and flexibility. Company management consulting aims to enhance organizational performance through various strategies. Strategy consulting specializes in helping businesses identify and implement strategic initiatives for success. Corporate consulting firms bring experienced consultants together to offer tailored solutions for businesses of all sizes. Consultants commonly present their solutions in consulting slide decks.

We shall now see top 10 creative design layouts that are frequently used in a typical consulting style deck. These layouts help simplify the content idea and thoughtfully condense and present the information in a logical and easy-to-understand manner.

1. Pillar Diagram

Pillar Diagrams are commonly used in consulting decks to visually represent the key pillars or components of a strategy, plan, or concept. They are often used to break down complex ideas into simpler, more digestible parts and to show the relationships between these parts. Pillar Diagrams can help consultants and clients understand the different elements that contribute to a larger goal or objective and can serve as a framework for decision-making and problem-solving.

2. Matrix design

Matrix design is commonly used in consulting decks to visually organize and present complex information. It allows for easy comparison and analysis of different variables, making it an effective tool for decision-making and problem-solving.

3. Process Flow Diagram

Process Flow Diagrams are used in consulting decks to visually represent the steps and sequence of a process. They help to provide a clear and concise overview of how a process works, allowing consultants to analyze and identify areas for improvement or optimization. Process Flow Diagrams can also be used to communicate complex processes to clients or stakeholders in a simplified and easy-to-understand format.

4. Harvey Balls

Harvey Balls are used in consulting decks as a visual tool to represent and communicate levels of completion, progress, or ratings. They are often used to visually represent data or information in a clear and concise manner, making it easier for clients and stakeholders to understand and interpret.

5. Venn Diagram

Venn diagrams are commonly used in consulting decks to visually represent the relationships and overlaps between different sets of data or concepts. They are effective tools for illustrating complex ideas, identifying commonalities and differences, and presenting information in a clear and concise manner.

 

6. SWOT analysis

SWOT analysis is commonly used in consulting decks to assess the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats of a business or project. It helps consultants identify areas of improvement, develop strategies, and make informed decisions. SWOT analysis provides a comprehensive overview of the internal and external factors that can impact the success of a business, making it a valuable tool in consulting presentations.

7. Market sizing visualization

Market sizing visualization is used in consulting decks to provide a clear and concise representation of the market potential and opportunity. It helps consultants and clients understand the size and growth of a specific market, identify key trends and segments, and make informed business decisions.

By visually presenting data and insights, market sizing visualization enhances communication and facilitates strategic planning.

8. Map Slide

Map slides are commonly used in consulting decks to visually represent data and information related to geographic locations. They can be used to show market trends, customer distribution, competitor analysis, and other relevant data.

Map slides help consultants present complex information in a clear and concise manner, making it easier for clients to understand and make informed decisions.

9. Organization Chart

Organization charts are essential in consulting decks as they provide a visual representation of the company’s structure and hierarchy. They help consultants and clients understand the relationships between different departments, teams, and individuals within the organization.

This information is crucial for analyzing workflows, identifying bottlenecks, and making strategic recommendations for improvement.

 

 

10. Heat Map Visualization

A heat map is a data visualization tool that uses color-coding to represent different values in a dataset. It is often used to show the distribution of data across a geographic area or to highlight patterns in large datasets.

Heat maps can be used in various industries, including business, finance, and healthcare, to help identify trends and make data-driven decisions.

Image source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Heat_map

Still have questions?

If you want to enhance your consulting decks, ask your questions in the comments. Expert designers are ready to discuss the key design principles used in creating McKinsey-style presentation designs for consulting decks.

Wrapping it up

Consultants draw sketches for production staff to make final products, and specialists create presentation slides. A well-organized and thoughtful presentation is more impactful than one just focused on appearance.

You can visit our portfolio to get an idea of a typical consultant style. Our team of Ex-McKinsey Presentation Designers (Ex-VGI Visual Graphics India) meticulously follow the best practices of formatting and data visualization techniques to come up with suitable chart types. If you require a professionally designed presentation with formatted charts in MS Graph or Thinkcell, please contact us and we would be delighted to discuss your design needs.

FAQs

1. What is a deck in consulting?

A deck in consulting refers to a presentation or slide deck that consultants create to communicate their findings, recommendations, and insights to clients. It typically includes data, analysis, visuals, and key points to support the consultant’s recommendations and help the client understand the information more easily. Decks are often used in client meetings, pitches, and project updates.

2. What are the 4 types of consulting firms?

The four types of consulting firms are strategy consulting firms, management consulting firms, operations consulting firms, and IT consulting firms. Each type focuses on different areas of expertise and provides unique services to clients.

3. What are the 4 pillars of McKinsey’s approach?

The four pillars of McKinsey’s approach are problem-solving, client impact, leadership, and personal growth. These pillars form the foundation of McKinsey’s consulting methodology and guide their consultants in delivering value to their clients.

4.What is a pitch deck consultant?

A pitch deck consultant is a professional who specializes in helping businesses create and refine their pitch decks. A pitch deck is a presentation that outlines a business idea or proposal, typically used to attract investors or secure funding. A pitch deck consultant can provide guidance on content, design, and overall strategy to ensure that the pitch deck effectively communicates the value and potential of the business.

5. What is the difference between pitch and deck?

In the business world, a pitch refers to a presentation or proposal that is used to persuade investors or clients to buy into an idea or product. It is typically a concise and persuasive presentation that highlights the key points and benefits. On the other hand, a deck refers to a slide presentation or document that provides more detailed information about a business or project. It is often used as a supporting document for a pitch or as a standalone presentation.