The Consulting Advantage
The management consulting profession is changing fast—and if you’ve felt the ground shifting under your feet, you’re not alone.
Technology is transforming how we work, AI is automating tasks we once billed hours for, and clients are demanding faster, more focused outcomes. In this whirlwind of disruption, it’s fair to ask: Does management consulting still matter?
The answer is a resounding yes—but with a caveat.
The Value of Professional Judgment
AI can gather data, summarize reports, even suggest actions. But it can’t truly diagnose an organizational issue. It can’t walk into a boardroom, observe interpersonal dynamics, weigh strategic trade-offs, or interpret subtle organizational misalignments. That kind of insight requires diagnostic judgment—and that’s where skilled consultants shine.
Consultants offer a structured approach to identifying root causes and recommending the right solutions. When done properly, our work accelerates transformation, increases effectiveness, and strengthens leadership capacity. That doesn’t come from algorithms. It comes from experience, methodology, and a deep understanding of how organizations function.
What AI Can—and Can’t—Replace
The line is clear: AI is a powerful tool for automating procedural work, especially what I call “Level 1” tasks—those that are routine and follow a fixed set of instructions.
But once we move into “Level 2” and above—where diagnostic thinking, creative solutions, and organizational judgment are required—AI becomes a support tool, not a replacement. Our job as consultants is to know that line, stay above it, and use AI to enhance our work, not compete with it.
Adapt or Become Obsolete
To stay relevant, consultants must continue developing diagnostic skills and real-world expertise. Just as importantly, we need to hold ourselves to professional standards and be visibly accountable for our work.
That’s where certification and training come in. Professional designations like the CMC and frameworks like ISO 20700 aren’t just badges—they’re indicators of quality, ethics, and effectiveness. They show clients we’re committed to delivering value, not fluff.
Becoming Future-Ready
If you’re in consulting—or considering it—the future isn’t about resisting change. It’s about evolving with it. Leverage the tools, sharpen your thinking, and commit to your own development.
Want to learn more about how to future-proof your practice with internationally recognized standards? Take a look at our ISO 20700 eLearning program. It’s on-demand, flexible, and built for consultants who want to stand out.
