The "do it with you" consulting model is ideal for SMEs, addressing their unique challenges and leveraging their strengths by fostering a culture of innovation, empowering teams, and ensuring sustainable growth through structured methodologies and collaborative engagement.
In my previous post, I discussed the shortcomings of the "done for you" model of consulting and advocated for a "do it with you" approach.
This collaborative model not only fosters ownership and builds internal capabilities but also ensures sustained support for transformative processes.
In this post, I delve deeper into why the "do it with you" model works particularly well for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
Understanding the Profile of SMEs
SMEs are the backbone of many economies, characterized by their agility, adaptability, and close-knit teams. However, they also face unique challenges that make the "do it with you" model especially beneficial. Here’s a closer look at the typical profile of SMEs:
- Busy with Operations: SME owners and employees are often deeply involved in the day-to-day operations of their businesses. This hands-on approach is essential for maintaining quality and customer satisfaction but leaves little time for strategic thinking or innovation.
- Limited Spare Capacities and Resources: Unlike larger corporations, SMEs usually operate with leaner teams and tighter budgets. They may not have dedicated departments for research and development or spare capacity to explore new opportunities.
- Operational Expertise but Limited Strategic Insight: SMEs are generally excellent at what they do operationally. They know their products, services, and customers inside out. However, they may lack the strategic insight needed to identify emerging trends, pinpoint innovation opportunities, undertake lean experimentation, and iterate on new ideas.
The Importance of Learning Structured Techniques and Frameworks
Given these characteristics, it becomes clear why the "do it with you" approach is so effective for SMEs. This model equips them with the tools and mindset necessary for innovation, ensuring that they can sustain and build upon the changes long after the consultants have left. Here’s why this is crucial:
- Trends and Innovation Opportunities: SMEs often find it challenging to stay ahead of market trends and identify new opportunities for growth. By working alongside consultants, they can gain a better understanding of the market landscape and learn how to spot potential areas for innovation.
- Lean Experimentation: Innovation is not just about coming up with ideas; it’s about testing and refining them through lean experimentation. This involves creating prototypes, testing them in real-world scenarios, and iterating based on feedback. SMEs can greatly benefit from learning these methodologies, which enable them to innovate efficiently and effectively.
- Iterative Process: The journey of innovation is continuous and iterative. It’s not just about the end result but the process of getting there. By engaging in a "do it with you" approach, SMEs learn to embrace this iterative process, constantly refining and improving their ideas.
The Shift in Mindset
One of the most significant benefits of the "do it with you" model is the shift in mindset it encourages. Here’s why this shift is so important:
- Frameworks for Innovation: Learning and applying structured techniques and frameworks for innovation is crucial. These frameworks provide a roadmap that SMEs can follow, ensuring that their efforts are systematic and strategic rather than ad hoc.
- Culture of Innovation: By participating in the innovation process, SME teams develop a culture of innovation. This mindset shift is critical for long-term success, as it encourages continuous improvement and adaptability.
- Empowerment and Confidence: When SMEs are actively involved in the innovation process, they feel more empowered and confident in their ability to manage change. This empowerment is vital for sustaining innovation and driving growth.
Conclusion
The "do it with you" model of consulting is particularly well-suited for SMEs because it addresses their unique challenges and leverages their strengths. By collaborating closely with consultants, SMEs can gain the strategic insight, skills, and mindset needed to innovate effectively.
This approach not only helps SMEs identify and capitalize on new opportunities but also ensures that they can sustain these changes over the long term. By learning structured techniques and embracing a culture of innovation, SMEs can transform their businesses and achieve lasting success.
In the dynamic and competitive landscape of today’s economy, the ability to innovate is not just a luxury—it’s a necessity. The "do it with you" model empowers SMEs to meet this challenge head-on, turning potential into reality through collaboration, learning, and continuous improvement.
Posts Related to the “Do It With You” Method:
- Why "Done for You" Consulting Fails and the Power of a "Do It With You" Approach
- Why "Do It With You" Works Better for SMEs
- How SME Owners Can Prepare for a Successful "Do It With You" Project
- How Consultants Can Prepare for a "Do It With You" Business Innovation Project
- Unlocking Innovation: How Lean Experimentation Drives Success
Related Articles:
- The Economist: Do McKinsey and other consultants do anything useful?