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From Thought to Action: Capgemini’s Strategic Research Group

Richard Allinson writes about Capgemini’s ‘Strategic Research Group’

What with bankrupt states, expenses scandals, student protests and Wikileaks, the reintroduction of Capgemini’s Strategic Research Group into the lives of CDCers slipped by preoccupied journalists unnoticed in 2010. But despite the lack of headlines, the momentous event is worthy of note, not least because you may find yourself spending 3 months with the SRG should you join Capgemini. 

The Strategic Research Group is a service available to all business units in Capgemini UK that sits within the strategy capability of Capgemini Consulting. The group comprises both UK based and offshore analysts, who provide focussed pieces of research for internal and external clients. Typically, research projects will include market studies, company analyses, leading practice analyses and the development of ‘points of view’, all of which help shape knowledge of business issues and identify opportunities in the market for Capgemini and for our clients. From 2010 onwards, CDCers have an opportunity to experience the SRG first hand.

Traditionally, the SRG has something of a reputation; one that tells a tale of long hours, tight deadlines and challenging clients. Whilst I can’t deny that my loyalty cards from the Nando’s next door now entitle me to more free chickens than I can find homes for, there is a lot more to the SRG than long hours. A rotation in the group allows you to develop knowledge of a wide variety of industries, meet a great range of Capgemini consultants, and increase your skill set tremendously.  In my three months, I have completed research pieces touching on areas from public sector payment schemes to high tech manufacturing, facilitated countless meetings, managed other analysts on complex projects and even racked up some airmiles to discuss issues with a global sector team. The message, the SRG provides CDCers with great challenges, incredible responsibility, and a fantastic opportunity to develop.