Functional Consulting Fundamentals

The Consulting Mindset

You are hired to solve business problems, not to implement software. Keep that distinction front and center.

Engagement Phases

1. Discovery

• Stakeholder interviews (all levels: exec, manager, end-user)
• Document AS-IS processes
• Identify pain points and root causes
• Never jump to solutions here

2. Requirements Definition

• Translate pain points into functional requirements
• Prioritize with client (MoSCoW)
• Get written sign-off before design

3. Solution Design

• Map requirements to system features
• Identify gaps requiring customization
• Estimate effort and risk

4. Delivery & UAT

• Configure in a sandbox first
• Train key users, not all users at once
• Run structured UAT with test scripts
• Document defects vs change requests

5. Go-Live & Hypercare

• Plan a cutover checklist
• Be available for 2–4 weeks post go-live
• Capture lessons learned

Common Mistakes

• Skipping discovery to start configuration faster
• Letting the loudest stakeholder define all requirements
• Underestimating data migration complexity
• No change management plan