The first thing I think of when asked how BCG differs from other consultancies is the way we solve problems. At BCG we do not blindly follow some established methodology, hoping to force an answer. Instead we work back from the answers we are after as soon as possible in a project, usually in the first week or two. For the rest of the project we focus on making sure that the solution is right, tailoring it and planning particular steps to enable change. In my experience, clients appreciate this approach a lot as it gives them a clear understanding from the very beginning of where we are heading. This approach also allows them to participate in shaping the result, to take ownership, and increase the chances of the project succeeding. Coming up with hypotheses so early in a project is often challenging and takes some boldness. As Edison said, "There is no expedient to which a man will not go to avoid the real labor of thinking". At BCG, we try not to avoid it.

One of BCG’s key strengths and, perhaps, its most significant differentiator is the way we work collaboratively with clients as we develop and implement innovative strategies. On one recent case, I had the chance to work directly with senior physicians and administrators of a large health care system to develop a long-term growth strategy. It was exciting to be part of a team that was bringing a unique and bold perspective to a tough competitive and regulatory environment. We customized our recommendations by working closely with several client teams, incorporating their extensive clinical and market expertise into the strategic plan we created.

During our final presentation, a board member commented that our work was the most robust strategic plan he had seen in his 25 years in health care. I felt this success was a direct result of our ability to collaborate with management, understand the problems they faced, and then use our expertise to find creative solutions.