The SCQA Framework is a powerful tool for organizing complex information into a clear, logical narrative. Originally developed by McKinsey & Company, it helps presenters guide their audience through a structured thought process from context to solution. This framework is particularly effective for business presentations, strategic discussions, and problem-solving scenarios where clarity and logical flow are crucial.
15min
Structured Communication
Business PresentationsProblem-Solving DiscussionsStrategic ProposalsExecutive Summaries
Framework Steps
"
Situation
Establish the current context and background information that everyone can agree on
Key Points
•Start with familiar, undisputed facts that your audience can relate to
•Provide relevant context without overwhelming details
•Focus on the most recent and relevant background information
Key Sentence Structures
Currently, [organization/market] is experiencing [neutral observation]...
Over the past [timeframe], we have seen [factual observation]...
The current state of [topic] shows [factual description]...
"
Complication
Introduce the key challenge, change, or problem that disrupts the situation
Key Points
•Clearly identify the specific challenge or change that creates tension
•Explain why the current situation is no longer sustainable
•Highlight the implications if the complication is not addressed
Key Sentence Structures
However, [specific challenge] is creating [specific problem]...
This situation is complicated by [emerging issue]...
The challenge we face is [specific problem], which impacts [specific areas]...
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Question
Frame the key question that needs to be answered to address the complication
Key Points
•Formulate a clear, specific question that focuses the discussion
•Ensure the question naturally flows from the complication
•Frame the question to lead towards potential solutions
Key Sentence Structures
This raises the critical question: How can we [achieve desired outcome]?
The key question we need to address is: What [specific action] should we take to [desired result]?
We need to determine: How might we [address challenge] while [maintaining advantage]?
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Answer
Present a clear, structured response that directly addresses the question posed
Key Points
•Provide a direct answer that clearly addresses the question
•Support your answer with concrete evidence and reasoning
•Include specific next steps or implementation plans
Key Sentence Structures
Based on our analysis, we recommend [specific solution]...
The optimal approach would be to [specific action], because [supporting reasons]...
We should proceed by [specific steps], which will [expected outcomes]...
Practice Guide
1. Content Preparation
•Gather relevant facts and data about the current situation
•Identify the most pressing complication that needs addressing
•Prepare supporting evidence and examples for your proposed solution
•Develop a clear implementation plan or next steps
•Maintain a logical flow between all four components
•Use clear transitions between sections
•Keep focus on the core message throughout
•Use data and specific examples to support your points
3. Practice Methods
1
Record your SCQA presentation with the app
2
Review the AI feedback on your structure and flow
3
Practice with different business scenarios
4
Iterate based on feedback and timing suggestions
Key Inspection Points
Logical flow
Clear transitions
Time management
Supporting evidence
Example Analysis
Market Expansion Strategy Presentation
Basic Case
Situation
Our company has maintained strong market leadership in the domestic market for the past five years, with consistent annual growth of 15% and a current market share of 35%.
Complication
However, domestic market growth is slowing to 5% annually, and three new competitors have entered the market, putting pressure on our margins.
Question
How can we maintain our growth trajectory while protecting our margins in this increasingly competitive environment?
Answer
We should expand into the Asian market, focusing initially on Japan and South Korea, where our analysis shows high demand and limited competition. This expansion would provide access to a market 3x our current size and maintain our growth trajectory above 15%.
Highlight Analysis
Clear progression from established success to new challenge
Specific data points support each statement
Solution directly addresses both growth and margin concerns