SCC Case Workshop #2: Methodology

After a first workshop where we “dissected a case” and ran through a live example, the second SCC workshop will now let the members practice! in order to receive the most educational value –and also to accommodate time– we will use the “mini-case” approach.

Mini-cases = cases with only one part to solve

As explained in the first workshop, a case can be segregated into its different part (be assured that the decomposition is MECE). The result of this decomposition is what is commonly described as the problem solving loop.

(Click to zoom in)

A mini-case is simply a case where the candidate is asked to perform only some parts of the loop. The first round at McKinsey is famous for its “interviewer-led” cases where the consultant already provides pieces of the problem solving to the candidate.

Since we are methodical and logical folks, we are going to go through the decomposed loop in a chronological order, i.e. Workshop #2 will focus on opening, workshop #3 will tackle analysis and workshop #4 will handle closing. Please bear in mind that all parts are equally important for a successful case resolution.

What you need to prepare before the workshop

Since we are going to concentrate on the opening section , we will get the most benefits if you can prepare one or two cases (that you get from casebooks, internet, your own practice, etc.) and specifically isolate;

• What is the problem at hand?
• What is the optimal structure to solve the problem?
• What are the issues tackled first and why?

It will obviously be much easier if you have the textbook solution for the cases you choose and I highly recommend this solution, so that your fellow SCC members will benefit from accurate answers.

The mini-cases would ideally last about 15 minutes each.

The dynamic of the session

How the session will be conducted will definitely depend a lot on the number of people attending. If the number is limited, I would like to have a “watch and learn” model where every one will perform in front of the others, both as interviewer and interviewee. Receiving feedback from your peers about your strengths and weaknesses tend to increase awareness and hence improve the learning experience. “Performing in front of others” might also increase the stress level which is also a good practice, in order to know how to handle it when you are solving a case for real.

If on the other hand, we are lucky to gather many people (the threshold being probably 6), we will then rotate pairs so everyone will practice as interviewer and interviewee with all the other members( I hope you understand the last sentence) :)

Hoping to see many  of you on Sunday 29 April at 2pm at the NLB, have a good preparation!