Session 8: Volume Cases

Samantha must now be able to handle all types of simple estimation cases and all types of brainstorming cases. The technique she has learnt for full cases can also be applied across all types of full BCG-type cases, and we want to see her do just this.

We want to see her perfect breaking down an issue before we move to hypotheses development in session 13. Volume cases are very unusual, since most candidates would not be able to brainstorm a framework to solve them.

We teach a classic McKinsey approach developed by their Japanese office, which is painfully obvious, once we explain it. This is a very useful case for those interviewing in CPG/FMCG. An important test in this session is to see if candidates really understand the approaches they use, such as the 4P’s approach, and if they can introduce it logically versus simply saying they will look at the 4Ps.

The latter is messy and frustrating to interviewers because it demonstrates lack of understanding. If candidates can remember to introduce a framework with reasoning built into a compelling story, they will come across far more credibly in a case.

In the session descriptions which follow, we are using one description for 4 different candidates. Yet candidates do not perform the same, and while the descriptions are mostly accurate, there will be some differences as a few cases are brought forward, others moved back or candidates fail to prepare adequately. While these differences are minor, they sometimes occur.

Cases questions taught in the session:

Felix’s cases recorded in the session; Estimate the use of mascara by Emirates Airlines stewardesses, Brainstorm how Emirates Airlines can increase its growth & Skychefs volume sales increase.

Rafik’s cases recorded in the session; Estimate the market size for vinyl records, Brainstorm how to reduce waste in any business & the Amazon growth in book sales full case.

Samantha’s cases recorded in the session; Estimate the market size for new tires in the US, Brainstorm why Gap Inc.’s costs rose in the recession & the Russian bread company expansion full case.

Sanjeev’s cases recorded in the session; Estimate cocaine sales per annum in the USA, Brainstorm benefits/costs of legalising cocaine & the Chicago mob cocaine sales full case.