client-deliverables
Client Deliverables
Formal consulting deliverables that carry a complex analysis to a decision. This covers work produced during and after an engagement, in two formats: written reports and executive presentations. For pitch decks and proposals aimed at winning work, use proposal-development instead.
The discipline is constant across both formats. Lead with the answer. Back every finding with traceable evidence. Structure the argument top-down so a busy reader reaches the recommendation already understanding why it holds.
Before You Begin
Deliverables carry the firm's credibility. Every number must trace to a source. Settle four things before drafting:
- Purpose and audience: who reads this, and what do they already believe?
- The decision: what choice does this deliverable enable?
- Format: written report, deck, leave-behind, or a combination (see "Document or Deck" below).
- Evidence base: what analysis is done, and what data actually supports the findings?
Do not fabricate data points, citations, benchmark figures, or case results. When you need an illustrative number to show a format, label it: "Example, validate before use." When a real number is missing, use a placeholder and flag it: "Needs [specific data]. Placeholder based on [typical range]." Present any benchmark with its source and context. An unsourced benchmark invites challenge and erodes the whole document.