Annual Summit 2026 — Registration now open for WDC Global Development Summit in New Delhi

Learn More →
Get Involved
Get Involved

Problem-Solving Pods

Elite teams tackling complex challenges through intensive, outcome-focused engagements

Elite Problem-Solving

Concentrated Expertise for Complex Challenges

Problem-Solving Pods are WDC's rapid-response capability—assembling world-class experts into focused teams that attack specific, high-stakes challenges facing corporations, institutions, and governments.

Some problems defy conventional approaches. They sit at the intersection of multiple domains, require expertise that doesn't exist within any single organization, and demand solutions within compressed timeframes. Traditional consulting models—with their generalist teams and standardized methodologies—often fall short.

WDC's Problem-Solving Pods represent a fundamentally different approach. Each Pod is custom-assembled from our global network of Distinguished and Strategic Members, bringing together precisely the expertise required for the challenge at hand. These aren't theoretical exercises—Pods operate with execution mandates, accountability for outcomes, and skin in the game.

What Makes Pods Different

The Pod Advantage

Custom Assembly

Each Pod is purpose-built from our global network, selecting exactly the expertise needed for your specific challenge—no generic teams, no square pegs in round holes.

Time-Bound Intensity

Pods operate in compressed timeframes with intensive work sprints. The concentrated attention and urgency drives breakthrough thinking and rapid progress.

Senior-Only Teams

No junior consultants learning on your dime. Pod members are seasoned practitioners who have solved similar problems before—typically with 20+ years of relevant experience.

Outcome Accountability

Pods don't deliver reports and disappear. They operate with clear outcome metrics and remain accountable through implementation phases.

Cross-Functional by Design

Complex problems require diverse perspectives. Pods integrate technical, operational, financial, and political expertise to develop holistic solutions.

Confidential & Neutral

Operating under strict confidentiality protocols with no conflicts of interest. Pods provide independent, unbiased problem-solving without hidden agendas.

Pod Categories

Types of Problem-Solving Pods

01

Corporate Strategy Pods

Addressing critical strategic inflection points for corporations—market disruption response, geographic expansion, M&A integration, business model transformation, and competitive repositioning.

Example Challenges:
  • How do we respond to a disruptive new entrant threatening our core business?
  • What's our optimal strategy for entering African markets?
  • How do we transform from a product company to a platform business?
02

Institutional Reform Pods

Redesigning governance structures, modernizing operations, and driving transformation for development finance institutions, regulatory bodies, multilateral organizations, and public sector entities.

Example Challenges:
  • How should we restructure our DFI to be more responsive to climate finance needs?
  • What governance changes would enable our regulatory agency to be more effective?
  • How do we merge three overlapping institutions into one high-performing entity?
03

Policy Design Pods

Developing implementable policy frameworks for governments facing complex regulatory, economic, or social challenges—from industrial policy to healthcare reform to digital governance.

Example Challenges:
  • How do we design a semiconductor policy that attracts investment while building local capability?
  • What regulatory framework enables fintech innovation while protecting consumers?
  • How should we restructure agricultural subsidies to improve outcomes?
04

Crisis Resolution Pods

Rapid-deployment teams for institutions facing acute crises—financial distress, operational failures, reputational emergencies, or existential threats requiring immediate expert intervention.

Example Challenges:
  • Our infrastructure project is 18 months delayed and 40% over budget—how do we recover?
  • A regulatory investigation threatens our license to operate—what's our response strategy?
  • Our key partnership has collapsed—how do we restructure our business model?
05

Innovation & Ventures Pods

Designing and launching new ventures, innovation programs, and entrepreneurial initiatives—from corporate venture building to national innovation ecosystems to social enterprises.

Example Challenges:
  • How do we build an internal ventures capability to develop new growth engines?
  • What's the design for a national innovation fund that actually works?
  • How do we launch a social enterprise model for rural healthcare delivery?
Process

How Pods Work

From problem definition to implemented solution

Phase 1

Problem Framing

Intensive diagnostic sessions to precisely define the challenge, success criteria, constraints, and scope. We ensure we're solving the right problem before assembling the team.

1-2 weeks
Phase 2

Pod Assembly

Custom selection of 4-8 experts from our global network based on specific expertise required. Client approves team composition before engagement begins.

1-2 weeks
Phase 3

Intensive Sprints

Concentrated work sessions—typically week-long sprints with the full Pod together. Deep analysis, solution development, and rapid iteration with continuous client engagement.

4-12 weeks
Phase 4

Solution Delivery

Presentation of actionable recommendations with detailed implementation roadmaps, risk assessments, and resource requirements. Not reports—executable plans.

1-2 weeks
Phase 5

Implementation Support

Continued Pod engagement through critical implementation phases. Select members remain available for advisory support, troubleshooting, and course corrections.

Ongoing
Engagement Options

Pod Engagement Models

Sprint Pod

Intensive short-term engagement

  • 4-6 week engagement
  • 4-5 expert team
  • 2 intensive sprint weeks
  • Focused problem scope
  • Actionable recommendations
  • 30-day follow-up support
Ideal for: Specific strategic decisions, rapid diagnostics, time-sensitive opportunities
Most Common

Full Pod

Comprehensive problem-solving

  • 8-12 week engagement
  • 5-7 expert team
  • 3-4 intensive sprint weeks
  • Complex multi-faceted scope
  • Detailed implementation plans
  • 90-day implementation support
Ideal for: Major strategic challenges, institutional transformations, complex policy design

Extended Pod

Deep transformation partnership

  • 16-24 week engagement
  • 6-8 expert team
  • 5+ intensive sprint weeks
  • Enterprise-wide scope
  • Full implementation support
  • Embedded team members option
Ideal for: Large-scale transformations, new institution design, multi-year strategic programs

Have a Challenge That Demands Expert Attention?

Let's discuss whether a Problem-Solving Pod is the right approach for your situation.

Discuss Your Challenge Explore Membership