Our method
A staged process that keeps every decision traceable from the first brief to the final report.
How the method is built
Our method rests on four commitments: define the question before gathering evidence, test each assumption against a second source, record every change of direction, and report findings in plain language that a board can act on.
We do not begin with a template. Each engagement starts with a short scoping period in which we agree the decision to be made, the constraints that apply, and the evidence the client already holds.
Scoping and evidence review
We read the existing documents, interview the people who own the decision, and write a one-page scope that names what is out of bounds. This step usually takes two weeks.
- Written decision statement signed by the sponsor
- Register of existing data and its age
- Agreed list of exclusions
Five stages from brief to decision
Weeks 1 to 2
Scope
Agree the decision, the constraints and the evidence already available.
Weeks 3 to 5
Investigate
Gather primary data, test each assumption and log what did not hold.
Weeks 6 to 7
Analyse
Compare options against the agreed criteria and quantify the trade-offs.
Week 8
Recommend
Present a recommendation with the evidence behind each point.
Week 9
Hand over
Transfer the working files, decision log and review dates to your team.
The method in the field
The three images below come from recent engagements. Each shows a working session in which the scope, the evidence and the decision log were reviewed together.
To see who leads each stage, read about our board, or review our areas of expertise.