How Strategy Gurus Think: The Mix of Logic and Gut Feel

Strategy consultants are often seen as the brainy folks who help companies make big decisions. They're known for their love of data and numbers. But is that all there is to it? A recent study dug deep into how these consultants really think. The study looked at how consultants balance two types of thinking: analytical and intuitive. Analytical thinking is all about logic and data. Intuitive thinking is more about gut feelings and experience. The researchers used fancy statistical methods to figure this out.One big finding was that senior consultants rely more on intuition as they gain experience. This makes sense. With more experience, consultants might trust their gut more. But they still use data and analysis. It's a mix of both. The study also found that being aware of biases is important. Biases are like mental shortcuts that can lead to bad decisions. The best consultants know their biases and try to avoid them. But here's a question: Does this mix of thinking styles really help companies? The study shows that consultants use both logic and intuition. But does that lead to better strategies? That's something to think about.