Term-III – a true break mid-way during the course is now over. This term was a 2 week program at a business School outside of India. We had five batches (each of about 20 students) one each going to The Asia-Pacific Institute of Business at The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK)Hong Kong; School of Management at Fudan University Shanghai, China; Warwick Business School (WBS) at The University of Warwick Coventry, UK; European School of Management at Ecole Superieure de Commerce de Paris (ESCP)Paris, France; ESSEC Business School at Singapore
The 2-week program covered present socio-political situations across the world, evolution of economic and the present issues, Asia and South-East Asia’s role in today’s world economy with specific focus on China and visit to Industry.
There were cases to study during the IIP but the quantum and rigor was far less than what we had during Terms-I and II at IIMA. Also, we were spared quizzes and exams during the two weeks and this was a big relief too. Add to that, our exploring the cities and its attractions to the best we could, the IIP was a really a well-timed break from IIMA routine, especially so after high stress Terms-I and II.
I went to the ESSEC business school campus at Singapore. It is not a ‘Campus’ in the true sense. They are operating out of the Central Library Building as of now. We were told that a full-fledged campus was getting ready and they were expecting to move in by 2012. Nevertheless, their present set-up is quite impressive. They have couple of spacious classrooms, lounge, faculty offices, and computer terminals for students. They have some amazing faculty who are very knowledgeable in their areas and very artful teachers. They covered topics, which were very current and made the sessions interesting and enjoyable through interactive methods and sharing their actual experiences.
We went around most evenings since classes got over by 16:30. Singapore is strikingly clean and orderly. The way the country is managed is admirable and commendable. They have used the space and resources wisely (the waterway canals are an example of their planning and resource optimization, the rail and transport system, which is top class, again is an example of immaculate planning and focus on infrastructure for economic growth and public convenience). Singapore is very safe with a very low crime rate (amongst the lowest in the world). These attributes along with business friendly policies, quick decision-making, political will and its strategic location make it a preferred place for setting up business and trading establishments. Singapore has imbibed good values of democracy and governance from British and India, religious tolerance from India, the best of approaches for economic growth and public well-being from Europe and USA.
Having lived in Dubai, I could see enormous similarities between the two countries. Both are constrained with available land space and water. Both have a huge expatriate population running most businesses in their countries. Both have positioned themselves extremely well for businesses as strategic locations with investment policies that are conducive and robust political systems to enable quick decision-making and implementation. Both countries are examples of how comparative advantages can be built through political will and this in turn leads to competitive advantage. Other countries, though vastly different in terms of political structure and set-up have lot to learn from these two countries. If each city in a country like India can be nurtured and managed effectively like Singapore or Dubai does, there is no reason why we can’t have world-class quality of life in Indian cities. It is not easy given the size, population and political constraints but then it is doable with some visionary leadership. Alas, that is something, which is lacking in India.
Saturday, October 15, 2011
The Case Method at IIMA
The IIMA Pedagogy is something that sets it apart significantly from other management schools. Most business schools of recognition have adopted this method over the years but IIMA has a differentiator in the execution. IIMA is known to have adopted this from Harvard at inception.
The case method is a very powerful, practical and simulating way to get students to learn real situations faced by organizations, relate associated concepts to the case and most importantly, discuss their viewpoints in the class letting themselves assume the roles of case characters facing the situations. It is very beneficial to the entire class when students try to present their understanding and ideas about the case. In order to promote active, experiential learning, students are grouped and groups are required to make submissions ahead of the class and to do presentations during the class to set the context and open the case for discussion.
An important tool employed to enhance sharing of views and ideas amongst students in class is inclusion of ‘Class Participation’ as part of the grading system.
I must say, this approach works exceptionally well from two important aspects. The first is that students are forced to read the cases, which are interesting in themselves being actual experiences of organisations in various situations. The cases are drawn from diverse industries with elaborate explanation about the industry/frim and its functioning and a specific situation it was faced with. Cases have ranged from laboratory tests by Bio-Tech companies to McDowell’s aircraft manufacturing. The other aspect is that it allows students to learn in groups and from peers.
I have experienced enormous learning from the cases learning about different aspects of diverse industries and organisations and a plethora of situations covering almost all aspects of business management. I have gained greatly from class discussions and instructors expositions in many courses.
However, I have been very uncomfortable when instructors have administered the case method as an entirely student driven learning in class. That has resulted in very little take-away from the instructors who are very learned, experienced and have current knowledge about business management issues. As an experienced candidate looking to learn business management theories and application, I have been left wondering after many course classes as to what more than that I read and understood from the cases did I gain sitting in the class.
Another peculiarity of the case method is that no conclusions are drawn on the case issues. This is deliberate so as to let the students take-away concepts and apply those to situations as and when they are faced with issues in their professional life. Since no two situations are exactly the same, the idea is to let the person in thick of things to make decisions and drive actions that suit that situation than pick a solution from a case done at IIMA.
It is obvious that issue raised in the cases do not necessarily have ‘A’ solution. Still, a summary of the case issues and possible approaches based on associated theories will provide a structured process tool to the students without imposing a particular framework/approach as the best/ideal one to be adopted. This again is missing in many courses. It should be left to the students to develop their own ways of applying the appropriate theory and framework as they deem fit as and when they confront an issue.
In my opinion, if instructors apportion class time between student presentations, their own exposition and participant class participation, it will serve the students well, especially in the PGPX program, which has a fast-paced learning schedule in its 1 year duration. Other things, we could learn anytime, anywhere but from the great IIMA faculty only while here at IIMA.
The case method is a very powerful, practical and simulating way to get students to learn real situations faced by organizations, relate associated concepts to the case and most importantly, discuss their viewpoints in the class letting themselves assume the roles of case characters facing the situations. It is very beneficial to the entire class when students try to present their understanding and ideas about the case. In order to promote active, experiential learning, students are grouped and groups are required to make submissions ahead of the class and to do presentations during the class to set the context and open the case for discussion.
An important tool employed to enhance sharing of views and ideas amongst students in class is inclusion of ‘Class Participation’ as part of the grading system.
I must say, this approach works exceptionally well from two important aspects. The first is that students are forced to read the cases, which are interesting in themselves being actual experiences of organisations in various situations. The cases are drawn from diverse industries with elaborate explanation about the industry/frim and its functioning and a specific situation it was faced with. Cases have ranged from laboratory tests by Bio-Tech companies to McDowell’s aircraft manufacturing. The other aspect is that it allows students to learn in groups and from peers.
I have experienced enormous learning from the cases learning about different aspects of diverse industries and organisations and a plethora of situations covering almost all aspects of business management. I have gained greatly from class discussions and instructors expositions in many courses.
However, I have been very uncomfortable when instructors have administered the case method as an entirely student driven learning in class. That has resulted in very little take-away from the instructors who are very learned, experienced and have current knowledge about business management issues. As an experienced candidate looking to learn business management theories and application, I have been left wondering after many course classes as to what more than that I read and understood from the cases did I gain sitting in the class.
Another peculiarity of the case method is that no conclusions are drawn on the case issues. This is deliberate so as to let the students take-away concepts and apply those to situations as and when they are faced with issues in their professional life. Since no two situations are exactly the same, the idea is to let the person in thick of things to make decisions and drive actions that suit that situation than pick a solution from a case done at IIMA.
It is obvious that issue raised in the cases do not necessarily have ‘A’ solution. Still, a summary of the case issues and possible approaches based on associated theories will provide a structured process tool to the students without imposing a particular framework/approach as the best/ideal one to be adopted. This again is missing in many courses. It should be left to the students to develop their own ways of applying the appropriate theory and framework as they deem fit as and when they confront an issue.
In my opinion, if instructors apportion class time between student presentations, their own exposition and participant class participation, it will serve the students well, especially in the PGPX program, which has a fast-paced learning schedule in its 1 year duration. Other things, we could learn anytime, anywhere but from the great IIMA faculty only while here at IIMA.
IIMA Faculty – Sashtanga Namaskarams
A humbling experience here at IIMA is the opportunity to sit in front of to learn from some of the best faculty of the country. Our professors are almost always present and ready for the class 10 minutes ahead of students. They hardly let their presence felt until the class starts. Once it starts, their presence can neither be missed nor ignored. They treat each session as if it is the most important one in the course. Their passion for teaching, sharing knowledge and helping students with answers to questions is immense. Their commitment to the profession is amazing. They ensure that none of their students will be in a situation unable to relate to the subject or to comprehend a discussion on the topic once they attend their sessions. Irrespective of the nature of questions or the way they are raised, the professors go at pains to address and answer those without ever being dismissive though co-students may sometimes feel certain questions very silly and basic. Their patience is admirable.
Most professors are well known in industry and government departments through their work as consultants, advisors, research papers. Many are visiting faulty at prestigious business schools abroad and are very highly respected abroad. They also regularly conduct leadership and management development programs for senior management personnel of Industry and Government organizations.
Their modesty, passion and commitment are something I have learnt alongside the course contents. Indeed very fortunate to have them as course instructors. My Sashtanga namaskarams to them. Sri Gurubhyo Namaha.
Most professors are well known in industry and government departments through their work as consultants, advisors, research papers. Many are visiting faulty at prestigious business schools abroad and are very highly respected abroad. They also regularly conduct leadership and management development programs for senior management personnel of Industry and Government organizations.
Their modesty, passion and commitment are something I have learnt alongside the course contents. Indeed very fortunate to have them as course instructors. My Sashtanga namaskarams to them. Sri Gurubhyo Namaha.
PGPX Term-II done
Another action packed term ended August 31st. Being the ‘Second’ term helped. We had started to understand the rules of the game at IIMA. The rule seems - You have gained entry into the game after a tough selection into the team, now play it hard and we too will play it very hard. I must admit that really brings out the best of an individual. Forget the complaints, cribs and moans of an overload of courses, assignments, quizzes, presentations and project work. All that, done within the short span of 9 weeks was like being through a high temperature furnace and coming out stronger like an alloy that gets strengthened when amalgamated with better metals.
The second term was about Competitive Strategy, Corporate Finance, Financial Markets, Delivering and Managing Customer Value, Setting and Delivering Service Level, Role of General Manager, Macroeconomics and Management Communication.
The term included student activities like T-Nite and a Table Tennis tournament within IIMA. T-Nite was fun (I will do a separate post on this)
We did have a few speakers as part of the speaker series. Most were very good.
In all, bearability of Term-II was better owing to the Term-I 'Preparation' that we had been through.
The second term was about Competitive Strategy, Corporate Finance, Financial Markets, Delivering and Managing Customer Value, Setting and Delivering Service Level, Role of General Manager, Macroeconomics and Management Communication.
The term included student activities like T-Nite and a Table Tennis tournament within IIMA. T-Nite was fun (I will do a separate post on this)
We did have a few speakers as part of the speaker series. Most were very good.
In all, bearability of Term-II was better owing to the Term-I 'Preparation' that we had been through.
Friday, July 1, 2011
PGPX Term-1 Done
Term-1 is now over. Yes, the first 10 weeks culminated in end-term exams and we are now done with 20% of the course. As is usual when looking at things in retrospect, I now realize how many new concepts we were introduced to and we did manage to learn many in those 10 rigorous weeks. Exams had better durations that the surprise quizzes. A key part of the exams was that the question was designed to test understanding of all the concepts covered in Term-1. The Organisation Behaviours examination paper was very cleverly set.
Clarity on the course, the intent behind the rigor, surprise quizzes, assignments, project work and exam pattern has improved after a full-term-cycle. Importantly, now, I am able to relate better my purpose of doing PGPX to the course.
Most batch mates took a 2 day break using the weekend separating Term-1 and Term-2. I am sure this would have one of the best 2-day breaks we have had in life for a long time.
The PGPs are on campus. The campus is lively now. The climate is also getting better – the heat has come down for sure – I mean the air temperature. Term-2 has begun and the academic heat is very much ON.
Batch has started to engage in m any extracurricular activities – sports (cricket, tennis, and Table tennis), running in preparation for marathon and other special interest group/club meets.
With the benefit of Term-1 experience, we should be able to handle Term-2 better. We have another set of great faculty for Term-2 and it is up to us now to learn as much from them. Term-2 has Corporate Finance, Financial Markets, Setting and Delivering Service Levels, Delivering and Managing Customer Value, Role of General manager, Management Communication, Open Economy Macro-economics and continuation of Strategic Human Resource Management. Another packed term, especially since it will last only 8 weeks.
Clarity on the course, the intent behind the rigor, surprise quizzes, assignments, project work and exam pattern has improved after a full-term-cycle. Importantly, now, I am able to relate better my purpose of doing PGPX to the course.
Most batch mates took a 2 day break using the weekend separating Term-1 and Term-2. I am sure this would have one of the best 2-day breaks we have had in life for a long time.
The PGPs are on campus. The campus is lively now. The climate is also getting better – the heat has come down for sure – I mean the air temperature. Term-2 has begun and the academic heat is very much ON.
Batch has started to engage in m any extracurricular activities – sports (cricket, tennis, and Table tennis), running in preparation for marathon and other special interest group/club meets.
With the benefit of Term-1 experience, we should be able to handle Term-2 better. We have another set of great faculty for Term-2 and it is up to us now to learn as much from them. Term-2 has Corporate Finance, Financial Markets, Setting and Delivering Service Levels, Delivering and Managing Customer Value, Role of General manager, Management Communication, Open Economy Macro-economics and continuation of Strategic Human Resource Management. Another packed term, especially since it will last only 8 weeks.
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
PGPX The first month experience (04 weeks)
Arrived at IIMA on the 06th April, got SBI loan formalities done, checked into the Dorm on the 07th Registered on the 09th, was loaded with 08 books and 09 course folders. Got things arranged in the dorm, setup laptop for campus wide Wi-Fi.
The inauguration on the 11th was at good and set the expectations. The first two days were full days till about 18:00.
Subsequent days, classes started with Financial Accounting being amongst the first subjects introduced. Then came along Organisational Behaviours, Analysis of Data, Firms and Markets, Strategic Cost management, Marketing, Strategic Human Resource Management. Each day got increasingly loaded with cases to get done with studying, chapters to be read, group meetings, submissions, surprise quizzes (not only the dates which would be announced 10 minutes prior to class closure that day but the questions too).
The experiences and feelings have been mixed till now. The workload has been maddening and will continue to be so, sorry, is expected to increase starting next week. It needs all the optimization techniques that one is able to think of. After 2 weeks of hectic classes 06 days of the week, this week might leave us with Saturday and Sunday and look back and see what we have done.
As each day passes the experience is getting better - expectations and being redrawn and repositioned - from self and from the course.
IIMA effect is starting to show and am sure will mould us to becoming ‘Top Management’ ready as that is what this PGPX course is all about.
Meanwhile, lots of SIG (Special Interest Groups) have been active; have had few theme sessions on Social Entrepreneurship, Innovation etc.
Looking forward to the experience in the next 10 months.
Will keep posting the experience as it happens.
The inauguration on the 11th was at good and set the expectations. The first two days were full days till about 18:00.
Subsequent days, classes started with Financial Accounting being amongst the first subjects introduced. Then came along Organisational Behaviours, Analysis of Data, Firms and Markets, Strategic Cost management, Marketing, Strategic Human Resource Management. Each day got increasingly loaded with cases to get done with studying, chapters to be read, group meetings, submissions, surprise quizzes (not only the dates which would be announced 10 minutes prior to class closure that day but the questions too).
The experiences and feelings have been mixed till now. The workload has been maddening and will continue to be so, sorry, is expected to increase starting next week. It needs all the optimization techniques that one is able to think of. After 2 weeks of hectic classes 06 days of the week, this week might leave us with Saturday and Sunday and look back and see what we have done.
As each day passes the experience is getting better - expectations and being redrawn and repositioned - from self and from the course.
IIMA effect is starting to show and am sure will mould us to becoming ‘Top Management’ ready as that is what this PGPX course is all about.
Meanwhile, lots of SIG (Special Interest Groups) have been active; have had few theme sessions on Social Entrepreneurship, Innovation etc.
Looking forward to the experience in the next 10 months.
Will keep posting the experience as it happens.
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
Protection and Relaying - CT Selection Check
In this age of numerical and digital relays, CT selection and matching has taken back seat. More so because of the flexibility these relays offer in terms of accommodating and allowing on-site adjustments during testing and commissioning and not because it is irrelevant.
It is essential for protection engineers to be aware of what dictates the CT selection and applicability of CTs of certain specifications for specific purposes.
The article below presents a brief on CT selection check.
http://www.scribd.com/doc/20147450/CT-for-Generator-Protection-Rev1
It is essential for protection engineers to be aware of what dictates the CT selection and applicability of CTs of certain specifications for specific purposes.
The article below presents a brief on CT selection check.
http://www.scribd.com/doc/20147450/CT-for-Generator-Protection-Rev1
Protection and Relaying - Generator protection
Generator protection settings are pretty straight forward and rule of thumb apply for the under voltage, Overvoltage, under frequency, Over frequency and Reverse Power settings.
However, while setting protection relays for generators that are in a large interconnected power system, it is imperative that settings are made very accurately so as to minimise disturbances to the system.
I find the calculation methods presented in the following article very useful in this sense.
http://www.pes-psrc.org/Reports/J-5CoordinationofGen.Prot%20wcpyrt.pdf
However, while setting protection relays for generators that are in a large interconnected power system, it is imperative that settings are made very accurately so as to minimise disturbances to the system.
I find the calculation methods presented in the following article very useful in this sense.
http://www.pes-psrc.org/Reports/J-5CoordinationofGen.Prot%20wcpyrt.pdf
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
Certificate Course in Project Finance
I have always wanted to understand finance better, probably more so since I have not had much opportunity to look at that side of things either during academic days or in profession.
To give a start, I enrolled for the project finance course offered by IIBF (Indian Institute of Banking and Finance) in collaboration with IFMR (Institute of Financial Management and Research).
This is a 8 week course including a 5 full-day sessions at IFMR, Chennai and culminating with an internal and external examination.
IIBF sent a CD along with a book (Prasanna Chandra on Project Finance) and presentation material of 19 modules prior to the 5 day session.
The 5 day session was very well organized in terms of the lecture room, food and accommodation. The faculty were very experience professionals and enriched the class with their knowledge. The computer laboratory was excellent. They taught financial modeling for project finance in a manner such that a guy like me with absolutely little knowledge on finance and financial terms and tools could end each day's session with the satisfaction of having learnt and understood a concept.
The internal and external tests were conducted professionally and covered all major aspects of the course and needed good understanding of concepts to do reasonably well.
The participants were a from different backgrounds (many from the banking industry not surprisingly) and we got along well over the week.
In all, the course has added value to my life with little knowledge on basics of project finance. I am looking forward to reading the course material and book again to enhance my understanding further.
More importantly, I guess this could help me at PGPX too.
To give a start, I enrolled for the project finance course offered by IIBF (Indian Institute of Banking and Finance) in collaboration with IFMR (Institute of Financial Management and Research).
This is a 8 week course including a 5 full-day sessions at IFMR, Chennai and culminating with an internal and external examination.
IIBF sent a CD along with a book (Prasanna Chandra on Project Finance) and presentation material of 19 modules prior to the 5 day session.
The 5 day session was very well organized in terms of the lecture room, food and accommodation. The faculty were very experience professionals and enriched the class with their knowledge. The computer laboratory was excellent. They taught financial modeling for project finance in a manner such that a guy like me with absolutely little knowledge on finance and financial terms and tools could end each day's session with the satisfaction of having learnt and understood a concept.
The internal and external tests were conducted professionally and covered all major aspects of the course and needed good understanding of concepts to do reasonably well.
The participants were a from different backgrounds (many from the banking industry not surprisingly) and we got along well over the week.
In all, the course has added value to my life with little knowledge on basics of project finance. I am looking forward to reading the course material and book again to enhance my understanding further.
More importantly, I guess this could help me at PGPX too.
Friday, February 18, 2011
UPS Systems - Battery selection and sizing
Battery selection and sizing alongwith the inverter sizing are key components of design of a DC or AC UPS system for industrial purposes - specically when these systems service drives/loads critical to operation and safety of plants.
A well written stuff on selection with a performance comparison chart between various types of batteries is available at http://www.solidstatecontrolsinc.com/techhpapers/pdfs/selectionsizingups.pdf
The above stuff also details inverter sizing.
Battery sizing considerations are better explained @ http://ecmweb.com/market/electric_switchgear_battery_sizing/
A well written stuff on selection with a performance comparison chart between various types of batteries is available at http://www.solidstatecontrolsinc.com/techhpapers/pdfs/selectionsizingups.pdf
The above stuff also details inverter sizing.
Battery sizing considerations are better explained @ http://ecmweb.com/market/electric_switchgear_battery_sizing/
Inner Strength-WILL- Bhartrihari's Subhashitani
This quote provides insight into what can be achieved through inner strength - the WILL. Quote is from Subhashitani by Bhartrihari.
रथस्यैकं चक्रं à¤ुजगयमिताः सप्ततुरगाः
निरालंबो मार्गश्चरणविकलो सारथिरपि।
रविर्यात्यंतं प्रतिदिनमपारस्य नà¤à¤¸ः
क्रियासिद्धिः सत्त्वे à¤à¤µà¤¤ि महतां नोपकरणे॥
Each day on earth, the sun travels to the end of endless sky in a single wheeled chariot drawn by seven horses controlled by serpents on an unsupported road with a charioteer whose feet are diabled.
Likewise, the actions of great people are accomplished by their inner strength and not by the means they have.
रथस्यैकं चक्रं à¤ुजगयमिताः सप्ततुरगाः
निरालंबो मार्गश्चरणविकलो सारथिरपि।
रविर्यात्यंतं प्रतिदिनमपारस्य नà¤à¤¸ः
क्रियासिद्धिः सत्त्वे à¤à¤µà¤¤ि महतां नोपकरणे॥
Each day on earth, the sun travels to the end of endless sky in a single wheeled chariot drawn by seven horses controlled by serpents on an unsupported road with a charioteer whose feet are diabled.
Likewise, the actions of great people are accomplished by their inner strength and not by the means they have.
Sunday, February 6, 2011
Mahabharatha - Management and Leadership lessons
https://docs.google.com/present/edit?id=0ATpex7XCZ8tQZGR2NjVwcDdfNGdreGQ1dmR4&hl=en&authkey=CJTspvcO
Very insightful analysis of Mahabharatha from Management and Leadership aspects. Gives a practical perspective of certain elements of the great Indian Epic.
Very insightful analysis of Mahabharatha from Management and Leadership aspects. Gives a practical perspective of certain elements of the great Indian Epic.
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
All Creation is special and purposeful
A very insightful quote from Vedic scriptures.
A beautiful couplet exhorting individuals to realise ones potential since everyone is endowed with something special. Again, WILL comes into play since it is the WILL to discharge the duties ordained in this birth opportunity that will lead us to explore our inner strength.
अमंत्रमक्षरं नास्ति नास्ति मूलमनौषधम्।
अयोग्यः पुरुषो नास्ति योजकस्तत्र दुर्लà¤ः॥
There is no alphabet that doesn't have charm. Also, there is no root which doesn't have medicinal property.
There is no man who is not endowed with ability. However, rare is a person who knows its proper application.
A beautiful couplet exhorting individuals to realise ones potential since everyone is endowed with something special. Again, WILL comes into play since it is the WILL to discharge the duties ordained in this birth opportunity that will lead us to explore our inner strength.
अमंत्रमक्षरं नास्ति नास्ति मूलमनौषधम्।
अयोग्यः पुरुषो नास्ति योजकस्तत्र दुर्लà¤ः॥
There is no alphabet that doesn't have charm. Also, there is no root which doesn't have medicinal property.
There is no man who is not endowed with ability. However, rare is a person who knows its proper application.
Monday, January 31, 2011
Yahooooo What a debut - PGPX ranked 11 on FT '11 MBA ranking
Great news! News of the year for executives looking to go for an MBA in India.
The PGPX course at IIMA has made a debut in the FT rankings 2011 at a proud 11th place.
Last year ISB cut the ranks at 15 and this year IIMA has gone a bit further to be placed 11. ISB too is at 13 this year which is fabulous for the institute which has consistently climbed the rankings starting @ 20 in 2008 then onto 15 in 2009, 12 in 2010.
These rankings, for all the discussions on their methods and relevance, do serve many purposes and for sure help Indian institutes show up on the global radar and does help make Indian Management education count amongst the best in the international arena.
http://rankings.ft.com/businessschoolrankings/global-mba-rankings-2011
http://rankings.ft.com/businessschoolrankings/indian-institute-of-management-ahmedabad-iima/global-mba-rankings-2011#global-mba-rankings-2011
The PGPX course at IIMA has made a debut in the FT rankings 2011 at a proud 11th place.
Last year ISB cut the ranks at 15 and this year IIMA has gone a bit further to be placed 11. ISB too is at 13 this year which is fabulous for the institute which has consistently climbed the rankings starting @ 20 in 2008 then onto 15 in 2009, 12 in 2010.
These rankings, for all the discussions on their methods and relevance, do serve many purposes and for sure help Indian institutes show up on the global radar and does help make Indian Management education count amongst the best in the international arena.
http://rankings.ft.com/businessschoolrankings/global-mba-rankings-2011
http://rankings.ft.com/businessschoolrankings/indian-institute-of-management-ahmedabad-iima/global-mba-rankings-2011#global-mba-rankings-2011
Saturday, January 29, 2011
A great living demonstration of WILL
I read this recently, courtesy email from a colleague.
This is very moving and inspiring and is a testimony to what WILL can enable towards life and achievement.
Also, very importantly, how much can each one of us contribute to the success of such WILLED souls is exemplified by the gestures of various people mentioned therein.
http://battakiran.wordpress.com/2008/07/29/from-banks-of-godavari-to-google-on-wheel-chair/
This is very moving and inspiring and is a testimony to what WILL can enable towards life and achievement.
Also, very importantly, how much can each one of us contribute to the success of such WILLED souls is exemplified by the gestures of various people mentioned therein.
http://battakiran.wordpress.com/2008/07/29/from-banks-of-godavari-to-google-on-wheel-chair/
Saturday, January 22, 2011
Project Management and PMP
Project management is a great area of interest. PMI is one institute that offers certifications which are valued world over.
Information on PMP and other certifications offered by PMI are described in various sections at http://www.pmi.org/
All certifications are through written exams.
A key perquisite for the exam is the eligibility to sit for the exam in terms of experience and education in the project management area. PMI has to approve the candidate's eligibility to be able to even schedule the exam with Pearson or other provider.
While experience is ok to document, education is a little different. There are many ways to obtain the 35PDUs (Professional Development Units) that PMI requires as documentation of PM education.
One may attend weekend classes offered by PMI chapters or REPs over two weekends (36 hours). Another is to go for an online course which requires assignments to be submitted and an intermediate exam to be passed. I went for the online option through http://www.pmtrainingmaster.com/pmpexamprep.html. Their review/response cycle was good, usually within 12-24 hours. The online option allowed me to actually read and re-read at my own pace. First things first, a PMI membership is recommended and it will let you download the PMBOK, 04th edition which is the syllabus on which the exam is based upon.
I have obtained the 35PDUs and am now doing the online application at PMI.org. I wish to be able to sit for the exam soon. Will post when PMP is done.
Information on PMP and other certifications offered by PMI are described in various sections at http://www.pmi.org/
All certifications are through written exams.
A key perquisite for the exam is the eligibility to sit for the exam in terms of experience and education in the project management area. PMI has to approve the candidate's eligibility to be able to even schedule the exam with Pearson or other provider.
While experience is ok to document, education is a little different. There are many ways to obtain the 35PDUs (Professional Development Units) that PMI requires as documentation of PM education.
One may attend weekend classes offered by PMI chapters or REPs over two weekends (36 hours). Another is to go for an online course which requires assignments to be submitted and an intermediate exam to be passed. I went for the online option through http://www.pmtrainingmaster.com/pmpexamprep.html. Their review/response cycle was good, usually within 12-24 hours. The online option allowed me to actually read and re-read at my own pace. First things first, a PMI membership is recommended and it will let you download the PMBOK, 04th edition which is the syllabus on which the exam is based upon.
I have obtained the 35PDUs and am now doing the online application at PMI.org. I wish to be able to sit for the exam soon. Will post when PMP is done.
Thursday, January 20, 2011
Managing Up, Down and Across
Found this useful article in the last issue of Business Today.
http://businesstoday.intoday.in/bt/story/11550/1/establishing-a-rapport-with-boss.html
http://businesstoday.intoday.in/bt/story/11550/1/establishing-a-rapport-with-boss.html
Sunday, January 16, 2011
Emotional Commitment
A very good article (Economic Times of India) on emotional commitment. Answers questions like - why me, am I paid for it, others aren't putting as much efforts so why should I, what is in it for me, why should I care for the organisation, is it worth it after all, am I really mad doing so much like as I am married to this and such like.
It clearly brings out the role of self motivation, self commitment, self appreciation and self satisfaction in doing things. Needless to describe, WILL drives all of that.
http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/features/corporate-dossier/emotional-commitment-the-most-important-manager-commitment/articleshow/7229989.cms
It clearly brings out the role of self motivation, self commitment, self appreciation and self satisfaction in doing things. Needless to describe, WILL drives all of that.
http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/features/corporate-dossier/emotional-commitment-the-most-important-manager-commitment/articleshow/7229989.cms
Saturday, January 15, 2011
GMAT Preparation
This has been pending for long time now -posting the GMAT preparation sources that I used including a study schedule. If not to the exact hours and minutes, I followed preparation schedule to keep a check on my preparation progress. Eventually, I spent about 60% of the time I scheduled. So, planning does help. Control and Monitoring is essential along with the planning. First things first, it is important to decide the mode of preparation - paid classroom courses, paid online resources or free online resources. Secondly, it is important to place an expectation on the scores based on diagnostic tests. I found free resources adequate.
I did buy Princeton review, GMAT Review (mba.com), GMAT Verbal review, GMAT Quant review and Pearson GMAT preparation to practice offline. Free tests are available from mba.com also. I used the older version of the free official GMAT test preparation test too.
I hope this helps with a direction during initial days after having decided to go to a business school through GMAT.
Free Tests
http://www.crack-gmat.com/php/DownloadTest4.php
http://www.800score.com/free-gmat.html
http://www.kaptest.com/MCAT/Home/index.html
http://www.filestube.com/1cbb8292c617dff903ea/details.html - PPGMAT30.exe
http://gmatclub.com/tests/
http://www.4tests.com/exams/examdetail.asp?eid=31
http://www.platinumgmat.com/practice_gmat_questions/sentence_correction_questions
http://www.princetonreview.com/login3.aspx?RDN=1
http://www.veritasprep.com/free-gmat-practice-test/
GMAT Study Schedule
https://spreadsheets.google.com/ccc?key=0Ajpex7XCZ8tQdFFSWTJraXMzUmF2X0UtRUR4MWdZRkE&hl=en&authkey=CLLA5K4C
GMAT Idioms (Collected from many webpages that have not implied any copyright)https://spreadsheets.google.com/ccc?key=0Ajpex7XCZ8tQdEtpMUtCX2RCd0dqaHFuMmxnWWVJcmc&hl=en&authkey=CJ6fs0I
Quant fundas
I did buy Princeton review, GMAT Review (mba.com), GMAT Verbal review, GMAT Quant review and Pearson GMAT preparation to practice offline. Free tests are available from mba.com also. I used the older version of the free official GMAT test preparation test too.
I hope this helps with a direction during initial days after having decided to go to a business school through GMAT.
Free Tests
http://www.crack-gmat.com/php/DownloadTest4.php
http://www.800score.com/free-gmat.html
http://www.kaptest.com/MCAT/Home/index.html
http://www.filestube.com/1cbb8292c617dff903ea/details.html - PPGMAT30.exe
http://gmatclub.com/tests/
http://www.4tests.com/exams/examdetail.asp?eid=31
http://www.platinumgmat.com/practice_gmat_questions/sentence_correction_questions
http://www.princetonreview.com/login3.aspx?RDN=1
http://www.veritasprep.com/free-gmat-practice-test/
GMAT Study Schedule
https://spreadsheets.google.com/ccc?key=0Ajpex7XCZ8tQdFFSWTJraXMzUmF2X0UtRUR4MWdZRkE&hl=en&authkey=CLLA5K4C
GMAT Idioms (Collected from many webpages that have not implied any copyright)https://spreadsheets.google.com/ccc?key=0Ajpex7XCZ8tQdEtpMUtCX2RCd0dqaHFuMmxnWWVJcmc&hl=en&authkey=CJ6fs0I
Quant fundas
Verbal fundas
Friday, January 14, 2011
Protection Relay settings
Setting protection relays in an electrical power system is like managing the system itself - it invloves understanding and coordinating the system so that it operates in cooperation, recognises risks and mitigates accidents to the extent possible. It is almost like running one's life - complex, yet if managed well, will serve well.
Over the years, I have found the following sources of guidance helpful. The Alstom NPAG (earlier PRAG) is truly an excellent guide and so is the one from GE by Russell Mason who has aptly called this Art and Science of Protective Relaying. Russell's book was the prescribed book for Switchgear and Protective devices at my under-graduation and needless to say, it was a pleasure to read from his book.
http://www.alstom.com/grid/NPAG/
http://www.gedigitalenergy.com/multilin/notes/artsci/index.htm
http://www.scribd.com/doc/8935228/ABB-PROTECTION-APPLICATION-HANDBOOKpdf
http://www.free-books.us/Others/139793/ABB-Protection-Application-Handbook
http://www.pearlabs.com/
http://webstore.ansi.org/RecordDetail.aspx?sku=IEEE+242-2001&source=google&adgroup=ieee&keyword=ieee%20242-2001&gclid=CM_0mruyuaYCFcZ56wodnHPtHw
Over the years, I have found the following sources of guidance helpful. The Alstom NPAG (earlier PRAG) is truly an excellent guide and so is the one from GE by Russell Mason who has aptly called this Art and Science of Protective Relaying. Russell's book was the prescribed book for Switchgear and Protective devices at my under-graduation and needless to say, it was a pleasure to read from his book.
http://www.alstom.com/grid/NPAG/
http://www.gedigitalenergy.com/multilin/notes/artsci/index.htm
http://www.scribd.com/doc/8935228/ABB-PROTECTION-APPLICATION-HANDBOOKpdf
http://www.free-books.us/Others/139793/ABB-Protection-Application-Handbook
http://www.pearlabs.com/
http://webstore.ansi.org/RecordDetail.aspx?sku=IEEE+242-2001&source=google&adgroup=ieee&keyword=ieee%20242-2001&gclid=CM_0mruyuaYCFcZ56wodnHPtHw
Thursday, January 13, 2011
Going with PGPX
I am going with PGPX. Have confirmed acceptance. The PGPX admits of 2011-2012 are busy connecting with each other and other PGPXs towards getting to know each other and the course better. The feeling is buoyant in the group. Lots of discussions on accommodation, travel dates, loans for the course fee are ongoing.
I have been busy working funds for the course, including loan application and also connecting up with groups of interest through http://in.linkedin.com/pub/gopalakrishnan-lakshminarayanan/7/448/7bb
And yes, I am now also a Chartered Engineer (CEng - Engineering Council, UK).
The CEng application process happened in the same month (Oct. 2010) as the IIMA and ISB interviews. One clear thing these exercises of application forms, essays and interviews helped was for ourselves to understand what we had done through all these years of schooling, college and profession.
I have been busy working funds for the course, including loan application and also connecting up with groups of interest through http://in.linkedin.com/pub/gopalakrishnan-lakshminarayanan/7/448/7bb
And yes, I am now also a Chartered Engineer (CEng - Engineering Council, UK).
The CEng application process happened in the same month (Oct. 2010) as the IIMA and ISB interviews. One clear thing these exercises of application forms, essays and interviews helped was for ourselves to understand what we had done through all these years of schooling, college and profession.
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