Frequently asked questions
What is McKinsey’s Business Technology Practice?
McKinsey’s Business Technology Practice is a functional practice within McKinsey. It is comprised of nearly 700 McKinsey consultants globally who help clients think strategically about how to use technology to create fundamental business change.
How does the Business Technology Practice fit into McKinsey?
Consultants in McKinsey’s Business Technology Practice work on engagements with consultants from all offices and practices within the firm. We serve McKinsey clients on technology- and nontechnology-related projects.
What kind of work do Business Technology consultants do?
Business Technology consultants work on the same types of engagements as anyone else at McKinsey. On balance, however, we do more technology-related projects than others at the firm. In addition, our consultants develop particular expertise in technology, whether in a particular industry or in a functional area such as operations or marketing.
What role does the Business Technology Practice play in IT implementations?
None. Business Technology consultants do not do systems integrations, programming, or development work or function as primary contractors.
How does McKinsey’s Business Technology Practice work differ from what IT consulting firms do?
McKinsey takes a top-management approach. We look at technology through a business lens and offer independent, objective, and solution-agnostic advice on how technology can improve our clients' performance. We do not design or implement technology products, and we have no alliances with third-party providers.
Why would I want to join the Business Technology Practice rather than another part of McKinsey?
Technology is one of the most significant drivers of business change. If you have a long-term interest in technology, joining the Business Technology Practice allows you to pursue this interest while developing the CEO perspective for which McKinsey is known.
Does joining the Business Technology Practice give me the same skills as joining another part of McKinsey?
Yes. In addition to the “McKinsey toolkit,” you will develop a strategic competence in technology, just as others in the firm develop a specific competence in a functional area or in an industry that they are passionate about.
What’s the difference between the Business Technology and High-Tech Practice?
The High-Tech Practice focuses on serving high-tech clients on a variety of topics. The Business Technology Practice focuses on helping clients in a variety of industries to use technology to create competitive advantage.
How do Business Technology consultants stay up to date on technology trends?
In addition to the general training that all McKinsey consultants receive, Business Technology consultants attend TLE (Technology Leadership Essentials) and MTP (Managing Technology Program). TLE is a one-week immersion into all current technology topics facing CIOs taught at a renown university. MTP facilitates the understanding of how to leverage technology to create business value. We also draw upon the knowledge of firm members across the globe and share information about the core elements of business technology management and the way that technology impacts business.
Given that the Business Technology Practice is global, should I expect to travel more than if I joined a geographic location?
No. While our community of Business Technology consultants is global, they don't travel more than colleagues in other parts of McKinsey.