The International Scale of River Difficulty is a rating system used to evaluate rivers. Class I rivers are easy. According to the scale, Class I rivers have “…few obstructions, all obvious and easily missed with little training…risk is slight…rescue is easy.”

Class 5 rivers are entirely different. As the scale describes, Class 5 rivers have “…extremely long, obstructed, or very violent rapids. Scouting is mandatory but often difficult…rescue is difficult even for experts…proper equipment, extensive experience and practiced rescue skills are essential for survival.”

At Class 5 consulting, we believe business conditions can be evaluated on a similar scale. Class I conditions are peaceful, with little risk. The business may be insulated by regulation or intellectual property.

Class 5 business situations are challenging, with swirling conditions. Skills, clear strategies and the ability to recover and adjust are all essential for business success.

Class 5 Consulting is a firm designed to help executives facing the equivalent of Class 5 conditions. Class 5 Consulting is focused on helping executives formulate the strategies that will help them succeed in challenging conditions.

Skills, training and focus are essential to successfully navigate Class 5 rivers. They are also essential to navigate Class 5 business situations. That is where Class 5 Consulting helps.

Class 5 Consulting brings together cutting edge academic theories and an appreciation for the immediate challenges facing organizations. The firm leads seminars and facilitates strategic work-sessions.

Class 5 Consulting was founded by Tim Calkins. Tim is on the faculty at the Kellogg School of Management, where he teaches marketing strategy, new product strategy and branding. Prior to joining Kellogg he worked at Kraft Foods, where he built businesses including Miracle Whip, A.1. Steak Sauce, Taco Bell and DiGiorno.