Operations

McKinsey Capability Center Network

Every corporate transformation begins ambitiously, with leaders setting aggressive goals and predicting big improvements in productivity. But the results often fall far short of expectations.

Participants collaborate to solve problems, sometimes implementing multiple strategies. And by creating a “safe” environment for experimentation, the training atmosphere encourages teams to propose bold solutions that would appear too risky in the field.

McKinsey’s global network of capability centers helps companies to promote lasting and significant change by addressing three issues often overlooked in performance-transformation programs:

• leadership 
• employee mindsets
• capability building

By helping companies take a holistic approach, and creating opportunities for experiential learning, we increase the likelihood that transformations will deliver significant long-term productivity improvements.

Our programs are appropriate for clients in almost every industry and across all levels of the organization, from the c-suite to the shop floor.

A safe environment to take risks and experiment

Unlike traditional corporate training programs, McKinsey Capabilities Centers create opportunities for experiential learning—people actively practicing skills, rather than sitting in a classroom. Participants spend more than 80% of their time in realistic work settings that mimic factories, offices, and even call centers. They tackle real-time challenges similar to those that occur in the field, such as long change-over times on production lines or excessive wait times at call centers.

Performance improvements of more than 50%

Cognitive research has consistently shown that “learning by doing” is the best method for teaching adults—it accelerates learning and enhances retention. Three months after attending a McKinsey Capability Center program participants’ recall rates are seven times higher than those observed with traditional lectures or discussions. Our programs can produce improvements of more than 50% on metrics such as productivity, working capital utilization, and quality.

Moreover, traditional on-the-job (OTJ) training typically requires four to six months to build capabilities across a large team because only a small number of employees can participate at any one time. Our facilities can accommodate large groups for short programs—a week or less. While our Capabilities Center programs will never replace OTJ, they serve as an important tool for accelerated scale up.

A global network

All of our centers follow the same training philosophy, allowing us to provide a global, unified approach to transformations. But each location has a few unique features and focus areas.