The Role of Designers in Management Consulting: Simplifying Reports and Presentations

Management consulting firms often rely on various tools and techniques to deliver their insights effectively. One area that can significantly enhance the impact of a consulting project is visual and interactive design. However, not all firms require full-time designers, and their use can vary widely. Let's explore how designers are utilized in management consulting and the role of editorial support in preparing compelling reports and data presentations.

Utilization of Designers in Management Consulting Firms

At Deloitte, designers play a crucial role in both beautifying partially-finished decks and providing strategic support for big projects. These designers work closely with consultants to ensure their presentations are visually appealing and impactful. Although some firms like Deloitte have dedicated designers, the extent of their involvement can vary greatly.

Another interesting aspect of using designers is their involvement in strategy retreats or seminars. Fine arts skill-equipped designers often capture the discussion on large posterboards, creating visual records that are invaluable for reminding clients of key points discussed during meetings. These visual representations are often used to sell projects to stakeholders who were not present, making the design aspect even more critical.

Resisting Complicated Reports and Emphasizing Simplicity

My personal stance is that reports and data presentations should be as simple and clear as possible. Overcomplicated documents can detract from the core message and make it difficult for stakeholders to grasp the key insights. Despite this belief, I found that professional editing can significantly improve the quality of my work.

During my tenure at Stanford Research Institute (SRI), all reports had to be reviewed and edited by the technical editing staff. Initially, I resisted this process, but I was eventually convinced of its necessity. After experiencing the benefits of professional editing, I made a deal with the editors. In exchange for their support in improving my writing, I would help them in their efforts to streamline and clarify the material. This collaboration turned out to be a win-win situation, resulting in more effective and concise reports.

The Importance of Clear and Concise Reporting

At Stanford Research Institute, I adhered to the principle that reports and data presentations should be as simple, clean, and short as possible. We did not use designers for report design, but we did use professional editors who focused on maintaining clarity and coherence. The goal was to make the material as easy to understand as possible, without sacrificing important details.

The key to effective communication in management consulting is clarity. Editors play an integral role in ensuring that the content is accessible to a wide range of stakeholders. By focusing on simplicity, we can ensure that our insights are valued and acted upon, regardless of the complexity of the underlying data or analysis.

Conclusion

The role of designers in management consulting firms is not always explicitly necessary, but their involvement can significantly enhance the presentation and impact of the final product. Whether it's through visual design or professional editing, the goal remains the same: to deliver clear, concise, and effective reports and data presentations that resonate with stakeholders.

Ultimately, the success of a consulting project depends on the ability to communicate complex ideas in a straightforward manner. By emphasizing simplicity, clarity, and coherence, management consulting firms can achieve their goals and deliver value to their clients.