Case Interviews
Can I ask about the client value chain before building my case framework?
I find brainstorming much easier when I understand the company's value chain. Is it reasonable to ask about that before I build my structure, or am I asking for too much information at that stage? I want the clarification to actually help the case rather than sound like a standard question I always ask.
Ian’s Answer
There is always more that you can understand. For example, if you understand the goal as improving profits, there's so much more you can ask - do they have a % change target in mind, how long do we have to turn this around, do they prefer this to be done through raising revenue or cutting costs, etc.
I always write BOTMG at the bottom of my framework page to help myself think of things I'm missing in case I'm stuck.
This helps "trigger" you to consider questions around B = Business Model, O = Objective, T = Timing, M = Market, G = Geography.
However, you should never just say "so, what is their business model?" Obviously, ask questions that help you frame your hypothesis, understand the situation, and ultimately drive your case better.