Data and Analytics

BCG’s Approach to Data and Analytics

The data and analytics journey requires a holistic set of capabilities. One of the hallmarks of our data and analytics strategy work is our ability to call on a global network of industry, functional, and technology experts. Our teams combine BCG data and analytics consulting teams with specialized talent to deliver end-to-end solutions—all while enabling our clients to build and scale their own capabilities.

In the right environment, with the right enablers, data and analytics drive growth. We develop the strategic, technical, and human capabilities that take companies from vision to value—and create truly data-driven organizations.

Data & Digital Platform

For many organizations, one of the biggest roadblocks is their own IT. Legacy systems, fragmented technologies, and data that’s localized—and hard to share—don’t unleash a data and analytics strategy; they hinder it. Few companies have the luxury of waiting years for a new IT architecture. No company has the luxury of doing nothing.

We accelerate data-driven transformation by creating a data and digital platform. A launching pad for data and analytics, it decouples data from legacy systems, so information is readily available for new applications and business models. A data and digital platform lets companies think big, start small, and grow fast, unhindered by existing IT infrastructure or the pace of its renewal. With more than 400 certified platform experts to draw on, we help clients develop their organization—their people, their processes, their culture—in ways that let them realize the full potential of data and analytics.

Artificial Intelligence

One of the most potent forms of analytics is AI. By helping companies detect—and even anticipate—behavior and patterns, AI has transformed areas like customer service, retail analytics, and industrial automation. It enables faster, better decision making and can spark massive competitive advantage. Yet only 10% of companies succeed with AI. The problem: many organizations launch successful pilots but find it difficult to extend AI deeper and more broadly into their operations.

Our approach—AI at Scale—is encapsulated in our 10-20-70 rule: winning with AI means dedicating 10% of your investment to algorithms, 20% to technologies, and 70% to embedding AI into business practices and new ways of working. We help companies identify how best to use AI, and we help them develop the processes, roles, and change management that let their efforts grow—and thrive.