Previously, young consultants at McKinsey & Company spent considerable time reviewing reports for consistency with the firm’s writing style. Now, this task is handled by an AI tool called “Tone of Voice.” Similarly, Boston Consulting Group utilizes a tool named Deckster to streamline the creation of PowerPoint presentations, while Ernst & Young’s consultants can rely on a chatbot for inquiries regarding their pay slips.
Consulting firms are pioneering the integration of generative AI, assisting clients in employee training, tool development, and technology regulation. They are also experimenting with generative AI internally, leading to the rapid development of chatbots, agents, and applications, transforming how consultants operate.
McKinsey’s Adoption of AI Chatbots
McKinsey has launched an in-house AI chatbot called Lilli, which consolidates over 100 years of the firm’s intellectual property. Consultants input their requests into Lilli, which then summarizes information, identifies relevant content, and connects users with the appropriate experts. Since its rollout in 2023, the usage of Lilli has soared, with over 70% of McKinsey’s 45,000 employees engaging with it around 17 times a week.
Initially, employees faced “prompt anxiety,” unsure of how to interact with Lilli. However, a single hour of training greatly increased engagement. The chatbot has been enhanced since its launch, now also analyzing documents and data. According to McKinsey, utilizing Lilli has led to a 30% reduction in time spent on tasks.
BCG’s Focus on AI Integration
Boston Consulting Group has emphasized AI training for its 33,000 employees, introducing ChatGPT Enterprise, which allows the creation of over 18,000 custom GPTs for various internal tasks. One notable tool, Deckster, aids in the rapid development of presentations, utilizing a training set of 800 to 900 slide templates. Approximately 40% of associates use Deckster weekly, even raising concerns aboutjob security among junior consultants.
Additionally, BCG introduced a conversational AI bot named GENE, designed for various internal uses including brainstorming and content creation. GENE maintains a robotic voice to set realistic expectations about its capabilities. BCG aims to reduce the tedious aspects of work while boosting job satisfaction, estimating that employees utilize around 70% of saved time on higher-value activities.
AI Developments at Other Consulting Firms
Deloitte has implemented rigorous regulations concerning generative AI usage. ChatGPT is restricted within its internal systems to prevent data breaches, utilizing its own alternative, Sidekick, exclusively for non-client related work. Deloitte has invested billions into AI, producing new agents like Zora AI tailored for specific subjects and tasks.
KPMG is employing a dual approach to AI integration by empowering employees with technology while centralizing efforts through new platforms. The firm is collaborating with Google Cloud and enhancing its agent capabilities. PwC has similarly developed platforms like agent OS to streamline their own and client-specific AI operations.
After facing challenges in the post-pandemic landscape, consulting firms see generative AI as a potential catalyst for growth. Leaders within these firms assert that as more AI agents become available, organizations can achieve enhanced efficiency alongside growth, fostering larger, more robust structures in the industry.
