ENTREPRENEURSHIPWeeks to result

Consulting Prototype Framework

Test your consulting idea

Problem it solves

business growth stalls

Best for

Individuals looking to start a consulting business

Not ideal for

Those who are not willing to take risks and experiment

Overview

Why this framework exists

The Consulting Prototype Framework is a step-by-step process for testing your consulting idea and building a successful consulting business. It involves building a simple prototype, testing it with clients, and refining your approach based on feedback. The framework is designed to help individuals overcome the uncertainty and risk associated with starting a new business.

Core principles

3 total
  1. Start small and test your idea with a simple prototype
  2. Be curious and open to feedback and iteration
  3. Focus on building a strong reputation and delivering high-quality work

Steps

3 steps
  1. Build a Simple Prototype
    Build a simple prototype of your consulting business, including a clear description of your services and a plan for finding clients.
    Pro tipUse online platforms such as Freelancer.com and Upwork.com to find clients and build your reputation
    WarningBe prepared to iterate and refine your approach based on feedback from clients
  2. Test Your Prototype
    Test your prototype with clients and gather feedback on your services and approach.
    Pro tipUse the feedback to refine your approach and improve your services
    WarningBe open to feedback and willing to make changes to your approach
  3. Refine Your Approach
    Refine your approach based on feedback from clients and continue to test and iterate your prototype.
    Pro tipUse the feedback to identify areas for improvement and make changes to your approach
    WarningBe patient and persistent, as building a successful consulting business takes time and effort

Checklist

Saved in your browser

Examples

1 cases
Sharon, the accidental marketing consultant

Sharon used the Consulting Prototype Framework to test her idea for a marketing consulting business and built a successful business through iteration and refinement

OutcomeSharon was able to build a successful consulting business and achieve her goals

Common mistakes

2 traps
Not being open to feedback
Not being open to feedback and willing to make changes to your approach can limit your ability to refine and improve your services
Not testing your prototype
Not testing your prototype with clients can limit your ability to gather feedback and refine your approach

Origin story

How this framework came to be

The framework was developed by Bill Burnett, a designer and entrepreneur, who recognized the need for a structured approach to testing and building a consulting business. The framework is based on the principles of design thinking and prototyping, and has been tested and refined through numerous case studies and experiments.

Source

Traced to primary
Source · BOOK
Designing Your Work Life
Bill Burnett · 2020
Open source →