Magnolia Field AdvisoryEngagement Process
Every engagement follows a clear sequence so you know what to expect, what we need from you, and when deliverables arrive.
How we work with consulting firms
Pricing engagements are not open-ended advisory relationships. Each project has defined phases, deliverables, and a completion date. Below is the standard process for our most common engagement — the Pricing Strategy Engagement. Workshops and proposal reviews follow shorter versions of the same principles.
Initial conversation (30 minutes, no charge)
We learn about your practice size, sectors, current pricing model, and the specific problem — whether that is stagnant rates, lost proposals, or retainer scope creep. We tell you honestly whether our services fit or whether a lighter-touch option makes more sense.
Scoping and proposal (3–5 business days)
If we proceed, you receive a written scope document with deliverables, timeline, fee, and data requirements. A mutual non-disclosure agreement is signed before any confidential materials are exchanged.
Discovery and data collection (Week 1)
Interviews with principals, review of proposals, contracts, and revenue summaries. You assign one internal contact to coordinate document sharing and schedule interviews.
Analysis and drafting (Weeks 2–3)
Benchmarking, rate modelling, and draft deliverables. You receive interim findings at the end of Week 2 and have opportunity to challenge assumptions before final recommendations are locked.
Delivery and handover (Week 4)
Final rate card, proposal templates, and implementation guide delivered. Leadership walkthrough session included. Payment of the remaining 50% is due on delivery.
Follow-up (30 days post-delivery)
One check-in call to address questions that arise as you use the new materials. This is not a sales call — we do not upsell ongoing services during follow-up.
What we need from you
- Twelve months of signed proposals (win or lose)
- Current rate card or informal fee guidelines
- Revenue breakdown by client type and engagement format
- Access to one or two principals for 60-minute interviews
- Responsiveness within two business days during the engagement
Timelines for other services
| Service | Typical timeline |
|---|---|
| Rate Benchmarking Workshop | Scheduled within 2 weeks of booking |
| Proposal Pricing Review | 48 hours from receiving draft |
| Retainer Model Design | 3 weeks from kickoff |