A framework for writing and presenting ideas
Barbara Minto was the first female MBA professional to be hired by international management consulting firm McKinsey & Company.
During her time there, Barbara found herself editing large volumes of reports that came her way. After a while she started to notice that she would automatically reorganise what appeared to be jumbled information into a pyramid shape, presenting a clear way to recommendations. This inspired her to study the structure of thought, including works by Piaget and Strauss but also to turn her pyramid idea into a course that she began teaching to colleagues. Her first manual, “Skillful Writing through Structured Thinking,” was soon much sought after and rapidly adopted by colleagues and newcomers alike.
After 10 years with McKinsey & Company, and at the turbulent time of the Oil crisis, Barbara decided to set up her own business, teaching and perfecting her original thinking to numerous organisations worldwide, culminating in this final version of her book. (If you don't yet have a copy, ensure you pick up the 1996 revised edition rather than any of the earlier editions.)
Organised thinking, effective communication
As a framework for organising your thinking that is standing the test of time, not only does it help you think, write and present, but it also ensures that what you write 'jumps easily off the page to lodge in a reader's mind'.
The sheer popularity of the Pyramid Principle amongst the big consultancy firms should be enough to recommend this book to any Insight professional looking to develop a consultancy-level style of communication within their organisation.
The IMA has drawn from the ideas in the Pyramid Principle for its work on consultancy skills (how to frame Insight projects) and communication skills (how to strcuture Insight communications). Please see links below.
Quick links
Please click here to access our member content on nailing the business issue
Please click here to access our member content on structuring communications
Please click here to explore the IMA's consultancy skils training
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