Finally, Is It The End Of The Analyst/Consultant Spirograph Era?

Posted on January 9, 2025

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“The Spirograph is a geometric drawing toy invented by British engineer Denys Fisher and first introduced to the market in 1965. It allows users to create intricate and hypnotic patterns resembling mathematical curves called hypotrochoids and epitrochoids. The toy became immensely popular and has been a favorite among children and adults for decades.”

Over the past few months, I have tracked various graphic outputs from analysts and the consulting industry. The number of posts with an illustrative graphic meant to enlighten often does the exact opposite. Check out this recent “gallery of insights” from McKinsey: The Many Faces Of McKinsey Collaboration And Transformation.

Like so many similar outputs, e.g., Gartner, everyone from frontline procurement professionals to the C-Suite gains very little from these visual displays beyond the “neat,” but what does this mean in a practical sense? In short, how do we translate what we see from eye appeal to real-world application?

“In conclusion, when designed and presented effectively, charts, graphs, and PowerPoints can significantly enhance comprehension of complex systems. However, they should be seen as part of a toolkit that includes clear verbal explanations, documentation, and opportunities for audience interaction.”

If these graphic presentations are to be valuable, rather than simply posting them, why not accompany them with a brief video that explains the logic behind the graph, why it is essential, and what its practical implementation and impact are in the real world?

EDITOR’S NOTE: According to my research, there are 30-plus types of business graphs.

Ask ChatGPT, “How many different types of business graphs are there?” Then, ask yourself how many are useful to you.

Which one is the McKinsey graphic?

Example A

Example B

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