AsiaTel, a leading provider of telephone services in a Southeast Asian country, had lost its footing. In a rapidly changing competitive environment, it was faring poorly. Profit margins, ROCE and share price were all declining.

Internal problems were at the root of AsiaTel's financial troubles. The company was dragged down by low employee productivity, lack of customer focus, a monopoly culture and paternalistic management.

Bain was asked to help AsiaTel articulate a clear vision and overhaul the drivers of productivity.