A Method to Support the Selection of Technologies for the Virtualization of Consulting Services

Abstract

Digital transformation in consulting and the virtualization of consulting services are based on the use of information-and communication technologies, such as data mining software, collaboration tools or smartphone apps. There is a pool of possible technologies and tools from which the most appropriate combination can be selected for the consulting process or individual task to be virtualized. So far, though, there is a lack of suitable methods and tools to perform this selection. In this chapter, we propose using a combination of the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) and core ideas from Quality Function Deployment (QFD) to address this issue successfully. This suggested method is based on an extensive literature review, and the analysis of existing virtualization initiatives. It aims to support consulting companies in determining appropriate technologies and tools for the virtualization of consulting services. An example illustrates its application in a practical consulting context. The devised method is part of the virtualization process model, described in detail in a different chapter of this volume. The method belongs to the design-oriented parts of the process model and builds on the virtualization potential of individual consulting services, as determined in the initial analysis phase of the process model.