Is it fine to have 4 buckets in case structure?

Question

Hi all, is it fine to have 4 buckets in the case structure? Usually I prefer 3 buckets, but when doing M&A cases I always have an additional bucket related to “execution capability (e.g., integration feasibility, skillsets, financial resource)” or “risk and mitigation”. Do you think it's fine to keep it individually as the fourth bucket?

Answer 1

Hi there!

Yes, it is perfectly fine to have four buckets in your framework. However, you have to ensure that your framework remains MECE and that the additional bucket does not overlap with the existing ones and TRULY adds value. I personally like to add a "Risk" bucket for market entry, M&A, or any investment case with an opportunity cost aspect to it. One last point: I would never go for more than four buckets to preserve MECEness, target my efforts on the root cause of the problem and keep the interviewer engaged!

Hope this answers you question, Goodluck!

Answer 2

Hi there,

You are approaching this from the wrong end.

It's not about the number of buckets but about the question if your top-level buckets cover the problem well = are broad enough and relevant/tailored.

For some cases, two buckets might be okay, for others it could be 5 or 6.

Cheers,

Florian

Answer 3

Hi there! It's not uncommon to feel overwhelmed or forgetful when structuring a case. Here are a few tips to help you... (read entire answer)

Hi there! It's not uncommon to feel overwhelmed or forgetful when structuring a case. Here are a few tips to help you navigate this challenge: Practice, Practice, Practice: The... (read entire answer)

Answer 4

Hello! Great question. This is a fantastic opportunity to show mature thinking, similar to how real top strategy cons... (read entire answer)

Hello! Great question. This is a fantastic opportunity to show mature thinking, similar to how real top strategy consulting partners think! If you are able to show and articulat... (read entire answer)

Answer 5

Hi! A very clear approach would be: Step 1: Verify the objective (e.g., generating money from the land) Step 2: Ident... (read entire answer)

Hi! A very clear approach would be: Step 1: Verify the objective (e.g., generating money from the land) Step 2: Identify High Level Options how the land can be used, e.g., Selli... (read entire answer)