Our approach

While every client situation is unique, we have found there are typical phases to our problem-solving engagements. Depending on their needs, clients may choose to work with us on some or all of these phases.

1. Define the issue
Perhaps the most important part of what we do is helping you define the problem you are trying to solve.

We typically begin an engagement with a series of interviews at various levels across the organization to gather multiple perspectives on the current situation. We then help you piece together a dynamic picture of how performance is changing over time and how that compares to your desired results. We also determine the scope of the problem: how much of your business system needs to be considered to fully understand the problem and devise lasting solutions. We then make recommendations about how best to proceed forward.

• We don’t sell pre-packaged solutions; rather, we approach each engagement with an open mind about what the problem is and how best to solve it.

2. Develop a model
We use a scientific approach to modeling that helps you identify the key drivers of performance over time.

We work collaboratively with you to develop hypotheses of the essential cause-and-effect relationships that are driving the current patterns of your business performance. We then gather data and develop a high-level model to test hypotheses using computer simulation. This process often yields new insights into the essential “physics” of the business that govern its behavior over time. These insights help you identify possible levers for performance improvement.

• We use visual mapping techniques to ensure that our models are transparent (not black boxes) and that you understand all the underlying assumptions about how your business works.

3. Design a solution
We help you architect a new business model that produces improved performance over time.

We help you “rewire” the interconnections within your business system and then experiment with new business policies using computer simulation to determine if they improve performance. This enables you to quickly explore a variety of possible solutions under varying assumptions about the future. The result is a more robust business strategy that enables you to anticipate and respond more effectively to your changing competitive environment.

• We use a variety of advanced modeling techniques to explore possible business improvements, depending on your particular needs.

4. Implement change
We provide you with a virtual testbed where you can try out specific changes to your business processes before implementing them.

Using the power of simulation, we can help you accelerate the pace of change in your organization by enabling you to experience the future. We create simulations that align your organization behind new initiatives. We also create simulations that serve as virtual laboratories where you can test specific process changes prior to implementation. These simulations enable you to develop the indicators you need to measure your progress and anticipate possible bumps in the road before they occur. Experiential learning using simulations is also an excellent way to help managers develop the new skills and capabilities they will need to succeed in your future business environment.

• We develop custom simulations that can be delivered in a variety of formats, depending on the application.

5. Evaluate progress
We help you measure your progress as you implement changes and adjust when surprises occur.

Modeling shouldn’t stop when implementation starts. As with any complex system, it is impossible to anticipate everything that can happen when you launch a major change initiative. We help you make sense of what is going on when surprises occur. When progress is slower than expected, we can help you understand why. And if the competitive environment changes in unexpected ways, we can help you adjust.

• Our models are designed to be ongoing tools for understanding your evolving business, not just answer generators.