MASSACHUSETTS, UNITED STATES — Major consulting firms embrace an AI-first delivery and outcome-driven strategies as the industry undergoes a foundational shift driven by artificial intelligence and automation.
Firms are expected to move from the traditional “pyramid” delivery model dependent on teams of junior analysts, mid-level managers, and few senior partners, to a new “obelisk” model built on smaller, more expert-led teams focused on speed and insight enabled by AI.
AI systems and automation are now handling more tasks previously manned by junior consultants: data collection, slide generation, and insight synthesis. As a result, firms face the need to redesign their operating models or risk being irrelevant.
Industry giants are already maximizing this transformation:
- McKinsey’s proprietary AI assistant Lilli has reduced the company’s research and synthesis time by 30%.
- Boston Consulting Group has used Deckster to create presentation decks in minutes.
- Bain has deployed Sage trained on its internal IP.
Global Firms Called to Adapt
This development signifies a defining moment for not only the consulting industry but also other industries. It illustrates how AI is reshaping the market, working not only as a tool but a structural and result driver.
For the industries, adapting to this shift means faster turnaround times, greater cost efficiency, and more senior-level involvement in operational engagements.
This also signifies a more competitive era. As firms adapt to a more unified workforce strategy driven by AI-capabilities, this also gives rise to their necessity to redesign service models to create new opportunities of standing out.
