Op-ed warns executives to scrutinize consulting firms' self-published research
A commentary piece advises business leaders to be skeptical of research produced by management consulting firms, outlining tactics these firms allegedly use to bolster their credibility and sell services. The piece references the 2001 collapse of Enron and cites economist Paul Krugman's analysis of the episode as a framing device for its broader argument about flawed expert advice.
GoKawiil's interpretation of the reporting above, not reported fact.
The warning suggests that companies relying on consultant-produced studies to justify strategy decisions could be acting on self-serving or methodologically weak evidence rather than objective analysis. This could prompt executives to apply more rigorous scrutiny to outside research before using it to guide major business decisions.
- Op-ed identifies three specific red flags in consultant-produced research
- Uses Enron's 2001 collapse and Paul Krugman's commentary as a cautionary reference point
- Aims to help business leaders evaluate the credibility of outside advisory research
Thinking, Fast and Slow by Daniel Kahneman — This book is a perfect companion for anyone learning to spot flawed reasoning and misleading research, offering deep insight into cognitive biases that consultants and corporations alike can exploit. It sharpens your critical thinking so you can better evaluate claims and 'research' before trusting them.
See Thinking, Fast and Slow by Daniel Kahneman on Amazon → Affiliate link — we may earn a commission on purchases, at no extra cost to you. Product picked by AI based on this article; it is not a tested recommendation.Source: fastcompany.com, 2026-11-10
Published there as: “Before you trust consultants’ ‘research,’ look for these red flags”
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