Here's how you can streamline operations and boost productivity in consulting using technology.

Automating tasks through tools like CRM systems and project management software not only saves time but also ensures consistency and minimizes errors, allowing consultants to focus on higher-value activities. This approach is key to staying competitive and maximizing productivity in the consulting industry.

Make a list of everyday tasks you would typically encounter that are tedious and time-consuming. Can this be repeatable? Is there a specific pattern you can discern? If yes, it's likely a good candidate for automation. After you make a list, then put each item into a quadrant. High-value with a few steps (should be first) Low-value with few steps High-value many steps Low-value many steps next (last) You can then look to leverage tools like Make.com or Zapier to create your first automation set. Companies with many legacy systems may consider leveraging RPA tools like UiPath or Automation Anywhere to assist (they act as a middleware bot agent to help sign in to legacy systems and complete tasks like humans using logins).

Cloud computing revolutionizes how consultants work, offering seamless access to data and applications anytime, anywhere. With collaborative capabilities, it transcends geographical boundaries, ensuring teams and clients are always in sync. Real-time access to updated information enhances decision-making, streamlines workflows, and accelerates project timelines.

SaaS providers and collaboration tools are vital to the flow of work and communication. Nothing trumps nutritious face-to-face connections for the exchange of ideas and innovation, but in a global workforce, leveraging tools can still help bring teams together, increasing efficacy. Please be clear on outcomes and key metrics to make sure everyone feels fulfilled and the business knows the value.

Consulting relies heavily on data and insights today. The speed of which can help consultants come up with innovative solutions for their clients. This means that the project timelines are reduced, resources are optimised, and more time for product development, research and innovation. Consulting firms should invest in Technologies that offer real time insights and in parallel upskill the teams to harness the potential of the technology. A good step towards it is to analyse your data maturity, with a robust data strategy. This assessment would provide deep insights into your current data ecosystem, technologies (new, important, redundant), volume & velocity, governance, quality, security etc.

Data analytics tools are game-changers for consultants, offering insights that elevate decision-making. By detecting patterns and forecasting trends, they enhance service delivery and client satisfaction. Embracing these tools not only boosts competitiveness but also fosters a deeper understanding of market dynamics and client requirements.

Without analytics, you are flying blind. “You can't improve what you don't measure.” Peter Drucker Data speaks when looking to impact change, gain access to budget, or activate an initiative. Using analytics to tell a story is a powerful tool in driving decision-making.

One area that needs to be added to the discussion around collaboration platforms is face-to-face interactions. Many great works have been inspired through conversations, meetings and team banter. Teams must deliberate various scenarios in a room or whiteboard to help drive change and advancements. This is fundamentally missing from the virtual collaboration tool talk track, which is one I am passionate about to help drive a different shift in workplace culture.

Mobile solutions like OOt Social Health will help build communities related to various professional interests communities that will add value for knowledge sharing and networking opportunities. It's difficult to find a way to network with juggling priorities, but everyone has a lunch break, so why not leverage that to network at least once or twice a week? Would that help with knowledge transfer, social health, and growth? What can be shared in 30 minutes between work colleagues of different departments, generations, ethnicities, and seniority levels? Would that help with culture building and social cohesion? I strongly believe the answer is yes to all of the above.