The Mumbai Dabbawalas Association made a presentation on campus. Invitations had been sent out to other companies in Hi-Tech City. It was well received with good media coverage.
Mr.Prasenjit Phukan - Senior Product Manager from Google was here to talk about Google's plans for India.
Mr.Edge Zarella, who heads the KPMG Information Risk Management business in Australia was here to talk to us about the booming technology sector in India.
Friday, June 30, 2006
Optimization, Global Freakonomics and Admissions
It was time to test our knowledge. Well, this happens every two weeks and I am really sick of it.
Workplace was heaven and I am waiting for next April.
I am not going to write about the exams because that is not anywhere close to my area of competence. The last time I did well, atleast I thought I did well, was in 1997. From then on it has been a freefall without any severe disturbance. Must say that there were few shocks - both positive and negative. I dont mind continuing to fall as long as the same parameters hold true.
During the evening, we had a meeting with the Entrepreneurship Cell regarding an elective that is being offered called Planning an Entrepreneurial Venture. The people involved gave us a brief idea of the course and answered our questions. The course by nature is very interesting and stimulating. And I am thinking of taking it up if I manage to generate a few ideas before the registration date.
An Admissions session followed this. The Admissions Team introduced us to its activities for the current year. We, as students will be helping the team in reviewing applications, answering queries, be part of admissions events that happen on campus and things related to that.
In about 30 mins, I have another meeting with the team that is organizing the Editor's Meet tomorrow. Its a big event and we are going to have a lot of people on campus. There's going to be maximum media coverage and we have to live up to the expectations of the external world.
Workplace was heaven and I am waiting for next April.
I am not going to write about the exams because that is not anywhere close to my area of competence. The last time I did well, atleast I thought I did well, was in 1997. From then on it has been a freefall without any severe disturbance. Must say that there were few shocks - both positive and negative. I dont mind continuing to fall as long as the same parameters hold true.
During the evening, we had a meeting with the Entrepreneurship Cell regarding an elective that is being offered called Planning an Entrepreneurial Venture. The people involved gave us a brief idea of the course and answered our questions. The course by nature is very interesting and stimulating. And I am thinking of taking it up if I manage to generate a few ideas before the registration date.
An Admissions session followed this. The Admissions Team introduced us to its activities for the current year. We, as students will be helping the team in reviewing applications, answering queries, be part of admissions events that happen on campus and things related to that.
In about 30 mins, I have another meeting with the team that is organizing the Editor's Meet tomorrow. Its a big event and we are going to have a lot of people on campus. There's going to be maximum media coverage and we have to live up to the expectations of the external world.
Thursday, June 29, 2006
Y = I+C+G+NX
Professor Krishna B Kumar is perhaps the best professor we have had till now. Just 5 lectures and the way he handled the whole course was just amazing. For a subject like macroeconomics, which is more like latin for engineers, his approach made us appreciate the course a lot.
Here is a short video of Krishna talking to Section C after our farewell party.
Here is a short video of Krishna talking to Section C after our farewell party.
Wednesday, June 28, 2006
Macroeconomics Revisited
People other than the Class of 2007 will find it difficult to follow this.
We have a Macroeconomics article about the Palm Meadows in Bengalooru.
Sometime back, during the term break, our own Rhapsoder had this conversation with one batchmate of ours.
To read the gist of the conversation, please click HERE.
So, the context is clear now.
Now that we've come close to the mid-terms, I did my analysis on Palm Meadows and found this picture, that definitely reminded me of someone who took her macroeconomics book to read up during the term break.
Let me tell you - this picture is also part of our textbook.
Monday, June 26, 2006
Commuter Cupid
I was browsing the METRO website today.
METRO is the free daily I used to pick everyday on my way to work.
It's a mini version of the Times of India.
METRO has started this new section called "COMMUTER CUPID" for Underground Commuters in London.
Looks like the western world is out to do anything for the people or rather the consumers.
The catchline is "Did you spot a fleeting fancy on your way to work in London recently? Let them know by leaving a message"
And this message from one Maria in London was interesting.
I’ve seen you 3 times in total in a period of 6 months in southbound Jubilee line around 8+ in the morning. You are tall, with brown hair, cute small eyes and a beauty mark close to the mouth. You were wearing dark suit with white shirt holding a light brown briefcase from a brand with a French name. All those three times we have been looking at each other. The last time was particularly funny, because the train stopped at Westminster and they had us step out of the train, because there was some sort of mechanical problem. We were sitting side by side glancing shyly to each other.
I am blonde and I get off at London Bridge, while you continue.
I promised to myself that I would talk to you the next time I‘d see you, but I realise that there may not be a next time.
METRO is the free daily I used to pick everyday on my way to work.
It's a mini version of the Times of India.
METRO has started this new section called "COMMUTER CUPID" for Underground Commuters in London.
Looks like the western world is out to do anything for the people or rather the consumers.
The catchline is "Did you spot a fleeting fancy on your way to work in London recently? Let them know by leaving a message"
And this message from one Maria in London was interesting.
I’ve seen you 3 times in total in a period of 6 months in southbound Jubilee line around 8+ in the morning. You are tall, with brown hair, cute small eyes and a beauty mark close to the mouth. You were wearing dark suit with white shirt holding a light brown briefcase from a brand with a French name. All those three times we have been looking at each other. The last time was particularly funny, because the train stopped at Westminster and they had us step out of the train, because there was some sort of mechanical problem. We were sitting side by side glancing shyly to each other.
I am blonde and I get off at London Bridge, while you continue.
I promised to myself that I would talk to you the next time I‘d see you, but I realise that there may not be a next time.
Editor's Round Table
When everyone is trying to get to grips with assignments and deadlines, the MEDIA CLUB at ISB is working at an extreme pace.
This weekend the Media Club will be organizing an Editor's Round Table.
Editors from Outlook Group, India Today, The Hindu, Businessworld will be participating in a discussion "Is the lack of political involvement amongst the youth a threat to economic growth?"
Two ISB Students will also participate in this discussion.
I think its going to be a great event, with the School getting an excellent coverage from the media.
This weekend the Media Club will be organizing an Editor's Round Table.
Editors from Outlook Group, India Today, The Hindu, Businessworld will be participating in a discussion "Is the lack of political involvement amongst the youth a threat to economic growth?"
Two ISB Students will also participate in this discussion.
I think its going to be a great event, with the School getting an excellent coverage from the media.
Saturday, June 24, 2006
Director Cobra Relations
I mentioned before that all the elections for the Club Presidents have been done.
A number of Clubs have put hazaar enthu and have called for meetings in the last two or three days.
And guess what, each club has a President and a Vice President. Then the whole list follows. Director Alum Relations, CAS Relations, Website and Newsletter, Skill and Knowledge Sharing, Industry Relations, Events. Okay, there is a Treasurer too.
Now, all these departments are mostly in every club. And each department does not have just one director. Sometimes, there are four Directors for a particular department.
This just reminds me of BITS Pilani days. Towards the end of the first year, the first yearites give a farewell party to their hostel seniors. So, we had something like 100 odd first year students in our hostel. Since, we did not have an election to select the farewell party co-ordinator, it was suggested that one person become the co-ord and everybody else become deputy co-ords. No matter what happened, every single person on roll had a post. Very Funny. Ain't it?
Going by my interest in Corporate Social Responsibility, I have decided to create a new Director for Cobra Relations.. Offlate, we have had a number of visitors from the snake family, one just outside my room, but before it could open a dialogue it found its way to the Lotus feet of Lord Shiva. Another senior member was also packed to heaven very quickly and skillfully.
But why is all this happening. Maybe there is a religious touch to all this. To understand this phenomenon, we are going to collaborate with the Arts and Creativity Club for new ideas, probably arrange for a Speaker Series/Panel Discussion with the Snake Charmers.
Not to forget our flagship event - Snake in the MBA's Shadow
A number of Clubs have put hazaar enthu and have called for meetings in the last two or three days.
And guess what, each club has a President and a Vice President. Then the whole list follows. Director Alum Relations, CAS Relations, Website and Newsletter, Skill and Knowledge Sharing, Industry Relations, Events. Okay, there is a Treasurer too.
Now, all these departments are mostly in every club. And each department does not have just one director. Sometimes, there are four Directors for a particular department.
This just reminds me of BITS Pilani days. Towards the end of the first year, the first yearites give a farewell party to their hostel seniors. So, we had something like 100 odd first year students in our hostel. Since, we did not have an election to select the farewell party co-ordinator, it was suggested that one person become the co-ord and everybody else become deputy co-ords. No matter what happened, every single person on roll had a post. Very Funny. Ain't it?
Going by my interest in Corporate Social Responsibility, I have decided to create a new Director for Cobra Relations.. Offlate, we have had a number of visitors from the snake family, one just outside my room, but before it could open a dialogue it found its way to the Lotus feet of Lord Shiva. Another senior member was also packed to heaven very quickly and skillfully.
But why is all this happening. Maybe there is a religious touch to all this. To understand this phenomenon, we are going to collaborate with the Arts and Creativity Club for new ideas, probably arrange for a Speaker Series/Panel Discussion with the Snake Charmers.
Not to forget our flagship event - Snake in the MBA's Shadow
Friday, June 23, 2006
My first meeting with the Recruiter
British Petroleum has been a good recruiter at ISB. They try and recruit close to 5 MBA's every year. Most roles are IT Related - Project Management, Business Analyst, Quality Manager etc.
Today we had a meeting with a team from British Petroleum. BP has set up a sort of back-office in India to manage a number of their IT Projects/Operations. Apart from that, they do have tie-ups with IT Companies like Infosys and Satyam to execute and manage their IT Projects in various locations.
Today we got an oppurtunity to meet the Global Head of Technology, the EA to the Head, Head of IT Related Strategy, the Business Manager for the Indian Operations (he'd graduated from BITS too, so i managed some cheap psenti :-)) and another senior person in the Business Side of Oil and Gas.
The meeting was very short and during the 30-40 mins that BP spent with us in the Board Room, they expressed a lot of interest in developing the ties with the School. They were impressed by the fact that a large number of corporates have a stake in the development of the school and the students.
Few members of the Business Technology Club and Energy Operations Club along with the Dean represented ISB.
On the whole, the interaction was very good. Considering the fact that this was the team's first visit to India and to the School, we definitely made a good impression.
Today we had a meeting with a team from British Petroleum. BP has set up a sort of back-office in India to manage a number of their IT Projects/Operations. Apart from that, they do have tie-ups with IT Companies like Infosys and Satyam to execute and manage their IT Projects in various locations.
Today we got an oppurtunity to meet the Global Head of Technology, the EA to the Head, Head of IT Related Strategy, the Business Manager for the Indian Operations (he'd graduated from BITS too, so i managed some cheap psenti :-)) and another senior person in the Business Side of Oil and Gas.
The meeting was very short and during the 30-40 mins that BP spent with us in the Board Room, they expressed a lot of interest in developing the ties with the School. They were impressed by the fact that a large number of corporates have a stake in the development of the school and the students.
Few members of the Business Technology Club and Energy Operations Club along with the Dean represented ISB.
On the whole, the interaction was very good. Considering the fact that this was the team's first visit to India and to the School, we definitely made a good impression.
Thursday, June 22, 2006
Club Consulting
All the Professional Club Presidents have been elected. To start with, the Presidents have been actively emailing asking people to be a part of the club and contribute to its activities.
Although I have no idea about what I am going to do, I have decided to be a part of the Business Technology Club and the General Management Club. I will also be on the Consulting Club DL - just to know what's happening. As usual, consulting club has attracted some 200 odd people.
Consulting Club has created a number of roles for the Club Activities.
Flagship Event Team, Info Sessions Team, Placement Team, Treasurer, Web-Site Rep, Blog in-charge, Brochure in-charge and perhaps many more. I heard that 30 odd people landed up for today's consulting club meeting and almost everyone has volunteered to so something. That's actually a good thing.
Last year's consulting club blog was a good effort. I hope this batch lives up to the industry expectations.
Although I have no idea about what I am going to do, I have decided to be a part of the Business Technology Club and the General Management Club. I will also be on the Consulting Club DL - just to know what's happening. As usual, consulting club has attracted some 200 odd people.
Consulting Club has created a number of roles for the Club Activities.
Flagship Event Team, Info Sessions Team, Placement Team, Treasurer, Web-Site Rep, Blog in-charge, Brochure in-charge and perhaps many more. I heard that 30 odd people landed up for today's consulting club meeting and almost everyone has volunteered to so something. That's actually a good thing.
Last year's consulting club blog was a good effort. I hope this batch lives up to the industry expectations.
The Etiquette Class
Today's HOT TOPIC for the evening (okay, this is only in my section) is about General Class Etiquette.
The whole damn email chain was very funny. People started voicing their views and the gala event is still going on.
What the Cribbers say -
- Coffee and Water Cups are left behind in the class. If you want to be a Corporate Citizen, then take your cup.
- You can't come late. Its not professional. And in fact, its distracting to some who are concentrating a lot.
- We are okay if you were abducted by Aliens or had a blackout.
- Charge a penalty for Late-Comers.
What the Don't Care's say -
- If you want to be a Global Citizen, then take everyone's cup.
- Are you distracted because I just got out of bed and walked in or is it because I am wearing a PRADA or a DONNA KARAN or a HUGO BOSS. Concentration - gimme a break. 40 Junk Emails in a span of less than 2 hrs. Thats concentration I guess.
- Well, this is not the US. So Alien abduction is out of question. You should change that to Cobra Attacks.
- Try adding that to my Debit Note.
New Dimension - Usage of laptops in Class for Junk Emails is the real problem. Coming Late is not.
Dont Cares - Yes, Yes. We strongly agree. Let's change the way we look at the problem and perhaps we will get a new problem. Haha.
The whole damn email chain was very funny. People started voicing their views and the gala event is still going on.
What the Cribbers say -
- Coffee and Water Cups are left behind in the class. If you want to be a Corporate Citizen, then take your cup.
- You can't come late. Its not professional. And in fact, its distracting to some who are concentrating a lot.
- We are okay if you were abducted by Aliens or had a blackout.
- Charge a penalty for Late-Comers.
What the Don't Care's say -
- If you want to be a Global Citizen, then take everyone's cup.
- Are you distracted because I just got out of bed and walked in or is it because I am wearing a PRADA or a DONNA KARAN or a HUGO BOSS. Concentration - gimme a break. 40 Junk Emails in a span of less than 2 hrs. Thats concentration I guess.
- Well, this is not the US. So Alien abduction is out of question. You should change that to Cobra Attacks.
- Try adding that to my Debit Note.
New Dimension - Usage of laptops in Class for Junk Emails is the real problem. Coming Late is not.
Dont Cares - Yes, Yes. We strongly agree. Let's change the way we look at the problem and perhaps we will get a new problem. Haha.
Monday, June 19, 2006
Thud !!!
It was one of those busy days. A good number of people were sitting in the Atrium and making their decisions, when we suddenly heard a THUD sound. It was a bit alarming.
Some of us decided to check out what happened. Well, the false ceiling on the way out to the Atrium from the Dining Hall had just come down for love of the ground.
Technically, water from the Air Conditioner's Duct had caused the trouble. And I cant write more on this, so we have a picture here.
Some of us decided to check out what happened. Well, the false ceiling on the way out to the Atrium from the Dining Hall had just come down for love of the ground.
Technically, water from the Air Conditioner's Duct had caused the trouble. And I cant write more on this, so we have a picture here.
Sunday, June 18, 2006
The Future of Brands
Team CAS, CCA and a couple of others had arranged for a guest lecture today. Mr.Shivkumar, VP and Country Manager for Nokia was invited.
The lecture hall was packed.
One of our batchmates gave a brief introduction and then Mr.Kumar started his presentation.
His almost one hour presentation was concentrated on the future or brands. Starting from defining a brand as a time saving device to make the consumer's choice simpler, he went on to talk about how the very concept of brands create industry shake-outs and result in re-evaluation of brands.
He then gave his thoughts about how capitalism had emerged as the most preferred economic system. It was surprising to note that West Bengal was the only state in India that had IT Services protected under law like essential services. So, in the event of a bandh, a Cognizant Bus would still run to work without a problem.
The talk also focussed on how health was an important characteristic in determining the success of brands. And this was evident from the list of brands that had survived the S&P Index over the last 50 years.
Some of the problems that increasing use of technology creates in brands is the problem of privacy. Internet creates a hunger among people to network and access knowlege.
In spite of all the advancement that has happened with products and brands, any interaction on a personal basis would probably be the best thing that could change this world.
Much created demand from the consumer who thinks and expects more than what the producer has to offer has led to alliances which has led to a number of questions in the market about sustainability.
But what one has to remember is that one can never pass the cost to the consumer. So, prices erode, costs never!!!
Because, an individual demands a lot, companies have to re-think brands very frequently and innovate to avoid losing market share.
Individuals seek condensed information. What does this mean?
20% of the students at ISB would carefully listen to every lecture, take notes, prepare well in advance for the exams. The rest 80% would ask them for a condensed information capsule.
The other important reason about success of brands is their promise to prolong the idea of beauty and health. This one reason has definitely attracted the women folk of the world.
People have started seeking their own identity and want to display the same to the world by adopting different brands.
In today's world brands can be either customized or a confident choice for everyone.
Towards the end, Mr.Kumar also emphasised on the concept of using the simplest way to express one's thoughts. And this was like - Would you have a mission statement, objectives and parameters to tell HER or would you simply tell the three words.
Mr.Kumar also answered a few questions about the responsiblity of a brand towards a society.
On the whole, the lecture was between good to excellent. As an audience, we were definitely able to relate to most parts of the presentation.
The lecture hall was packed.
One of our batchmates gave a brief introduction and then Mr.Kumar started his presentation.
His almost one hour presentation was concentrated on the future or brands. Starting from defining a brand as a time saving device to make the consumer's choice simpler, he went on to talk about how the very concept of brands create industry shake-outs and result in re-evaluation of brands.
He then gave his thoughts about how capitalism had emerged as the most preferred economic system. It was surprising to note that West Bengal was the only state in India that had IT Services protected under law like essential services. So, in the event of a bandh, a Cognizant Bus would still run to work without a problem.
The talk also focussed on how health was an important characteristic in determining the success of brands. And this was evident from the list of brands that had survived the S&P Index over the last 50 years.
Some of the problems that increasing use of technology creates in brands is the problem of privacy. Internet creates a hunger among people to network and access knowlege.
In spite of all the advancement that has happened with products and brands, any interaction on a personal basis would probably be the best thing that could change this world.
Much created demand from the consumer who thinks and expects more than what the producer has to offer has led to alliances which has led to a number of questions in the market about sustainability.
But what one has to remember is that one can never pass the cost to the consumer. So, prices erode, costs never!!!
Because, an individual demands a lot, companies have to re-think brands very frequently and innovate to avoid losing market share.
Individuals seek condensed information. What does this mean?
20% of the students at ISB would carefully listen to every lecture, take notes, prepare well in advance for the exams. The rest 80% would ask them for a condensed information capsule.
The other important reason about success of brands is their promise to prolong the idea of beauty and health. This one reason has definitely attracted the women folk of the world.
People have started seeking their own identity and want to display the same to the world by adopting different brands.
In today's world brands can be either customized or a confident choice for everyone.
Towards the end, Mr.Kumar also emphasised on the concept of using the simplest way to express one's thoughts. And this was like - Would you have a mission statement, objectives and parameters to tell HER or would you simply tell the three words.
Mr.Kumar also answered a few questions about the responsiblity of a brand towards a society.
On the whole, the lecture was between good to excellent. As an audience, we were definitely able to relate to most parts of the presentation.
Saturday, June 17, 2006
Como Estas
Spanish Language classes started today. A total of 4 hours over Saturday and Sunday. In all, we will have a maximum of 50 classes before we appear for the first level exam.
I totally enjoyed today's class. Its more like a stress beater and a step away from the academic drill thats happening this term. Its just one week and most groups have spent the whole of Friday Night making their decision for the first assignment.
With the time right now being half past one, another deadline has also passed by and this was for Competitive Strategy, wherein we had to submit a one-page write-up which could be about - competitive interaction of two firms in the market, a firm that has gained or lost competitive advantage by making a move, globalisation and entry strategies by Indian Firms or International Firms.
The last assignment is due on Sunday. I guess by midnight. Hafta check it out.
In between all this, we had an Alumni Website Launch. Hopefully, I should be able to write another blog about it.
As I write two parties are happening on campus today night. Rains brought in an element of surprise to spoil the mood of the party.
Tomorrow is also a big day - Spanish Class, Excel Workshop, Optimisation Tutorial, Bloggers Meet, Quiz Club Meet. And most importantly - Assignment Submission.
Gracias.... and more to come by definitely.
I totally enjoyed today's class. Its more like a stress beater and a step away from the academic drill thats happening this term. Its just one week and most groups have spent the whole of Friday Night making their decision for the first assignment.
With the time right now being half past one, another deadline has also passed by and this was for Competitive Strategy, wherein we had to submit a one-page write-up which could be about - competitive interaction of two firms in the market, a firm that has gained or lost competitive advantage by making a move, globalisation and entry strategies by Indian Firms or International Firms.
The last assignment is due on Sunday. I guess by midnight. Hafta check it out.
In between all this, we had an Alumni Website Launch. Hopefully, I should be able to write another blog about it.
As I write two parties are happening on campus today night. Rains brought in an element of surprise to spoil the mood of the party.
Tomorrow is also a big day - Spanish Class, Excel Workshop, Optimisation Tutorial, Bloggers Meet, Quiz Club Meet. And most importantly - Assignment Submission.
Gracias.... and more to come by definitely.
Thursday, June 15, 2006
Nursing Surprises
I havent found time to write an ISB Blog, though a lot of things have been happening over the last few days.
For the time being, please enjoy this joke that came to me all the way from Nashville.
A male patient is lying in bed in the hospital, wearing an oxygen mask over his mouth and nose, still heavily sedated from a difficult, four hour, and surgical procedure. A young, student nurse appears to give him a partial sponge bath.
"Nurse", he mumbles, from behind the mask. "Are my testicles black?"
Embarrassed, the young nurse replies, "I don't know, Sir, I'm only here to wash your upper body and feet."
He struggles to ask again, "Nurse, are my testicles black?"
Concerned that he may elevate his vitals from worry about his testicles, she overcomes her embarrassment and sheepishly pulls back the covers.
She raises his gown, holds his willie in one hand and his testicles in the other, lifting and moving them around.
Then, she takes a close look and says, "There's nothing wrong with them, sir."
The man pulls off his oxygen mask, smiles at her and says very slowly, "Thank you very much. That was wonderful, but, listen very, very closely......
"A r e - m y - t e s t - r e s u l t s - back?".
For the time being, please enjoy this joke that came to me all the way from Nashville.
A male patient is lying in bed in the hospital, wearing an oxygen mask over his mouth and nose, still heavily sedated from a difficult, four hour, and surgical procedure. A young, student nurse appears to give him a partial sponge bath.
"Nurse", he mumbles, from behind the mask. "Are my testicles black?"
Embarrassed, the young nurse replies, "I don't know, Sir, I'm only here to wash your upper body and feet."
He struggles to ask again, "Nurse, are my testicles black?"
Concerned that he may elevate his vitals from worry about his testicles, she overcomes her embarrassment and sheepishly pulls back the covers.
She raises his gown, holds his willie in one hand and his testicles in the other, lifting and moving them around.
Then, she takes a close look and says, "There's nothing wrong with them, sir."
The man pulls off his oxygen mask, smiles at her and says very slowly, "Thank you very much. That was wonderful, but, listen very, very closely......
"A r e - m y - t e s t - r e s u l t s - back?".
Monday, June 12, 2006
Cola Wars and the Participation Battle
Today was the first day of Term 2. Perhaps ISB decided to let a few sections take the term on a lighter mood that we had just one class as opposed to the two classes per day.
Today's class was on Competitive Strategy. The initial focus of the class was on Why Strategy, What Strategy and What levels of Strategy in various organisations.
The Professor had just finished mentioning that 25% of the marks would be allocated towards class participation and before she could complete her next question, there were ten hands in the air. But first impressions always don't make the best impression.
So, amidst all the Class Participation Confusion, we moved on to discussing COLA WARS.
Cola Wars is the term used to describe the campaign of mutually-targeted television advertisements and marketing campaigns in the 1980s and 1990s between Coca-Cola and Pepsi-Cola. They first began showing people doing blind taste tests in which they preferred one product over the other, then they began hiring more and more popular spokespersons to promote their products.
Our case was to discuss the scenario at that point in time and analyse the industry based on Porter's Five Forces Analysis Model.
In conclusion, I would say that we had an okay discussion. A certain instances, I felt that the CP was getting too chaotic.
Well, that was expected. When I attended an Open House in London, the Assistant Dean of Admissionsat the London Business School was asked - "Why do you need 320 Diverse Leaders in a batch? Wouldn't that create chaos and ultimately result in a conflict?"
And the answer was - "Well, our aim through the MBA is to create chaos and conflict among the members of a class. Its one method to learn"
In hope that the situation definitely changes.... For Good.
Today's class was on Competitive Strategy. The initial focus of the class was on Why Strategy, What Strategy and What levels of Strategy in various organisations.
The Professor had just finished mentioning that 25% of the marks would be allocated towards class participation and before she could complete her next question, there were ten hands in the air. But first impressions always don't make the best impression.
So, amidst all the Class Participation Confusion, we moved on to discussing COLA WARS.
Cola Wars is the term used to describe the campaign of mutually-targeted television advertisements and marketing campaigns in the 1980s and 1990s between Coca-Cola and Pepsi-Cola. They first began showing people doing blind taste tests in which they preferred one product over the other, then they began hiring more and more popular spokespersons to promote their products.
Our case was to discuss the scenario at that point in time and analyse the industry based on Porter's Five Forces Analysis Model.
In conclusion, I would say that we had an okay discussion. A certain instances, I felt that the CP was getting too chaotic.
Well, that was expected. When I attended an Open House in London, the Assistant Dean of Admissionsat the London Business School was asked - "Why do you need 320 Diverse Leaders in a batch? Wouldn't that create chaos and ultimately result in a conflict?"
And the answer was - "Well, our aim through the MBA is to create chaos and conflict among the members of a class. Its one method to learn"
In hope that the situation definitely changes.... For Good.
Friday, June 09, 2006
Germany 2006
Football World Cup has started today in Germany. I miss being in Europe. Football and beer is the best thing about being in Europe. You get to see every game at the right time and its just amazing. The world cup started off with a great match. Germany lived up to the expectation of being a Host Nation by beating Costa Rica 4-2.
Btw, Claudia Schiffer undressed for her country's football team posing naked wrapped in German flag.
Tam Movie Festival
People who dont follow tamil - I am sorry.
Today was the Tamil Movie festival at ISB. Screening was at the Rhapsoder Manu's place. Starting off with Kalaba Kathalan, an Arya movie, which we didnt manage to complete, we went on to see Arinthum Ariyamalum, another Arya movie. The hero in these two movies is from my batch. After watching him on the screen for the first time (this was quite a while back), is when I remembered that this guy attended 12th Standard Physics and Chemistry Tuition with me.
Then lunch happened. We came back and the festival continued. We completed that film and went on to watch Aayutha Ezhuthu, which was made as Yuva in Hindi. Here we got a chance to compare the way all the actors had performed. We came to a conclusion that Abhishek Bacchan performed better than Madhavan. But both Sooriya and Siddharth outperformed Ajay Devgan and Vivek Oberoi respectively.
After this, we started another movie Yae Nee Romba Azhaga Irukkae, that translates to Hey, you look very beautiful. A very nice movie, but we had to stop it half-way because most of us had seen it more than three times.
Final and uncompleted one was Kaakha Kaakha, a story based on the life of an IPS Officer. An amazing storyline, wonderful screenplay and dialogues. This movie was also re-made in Telugu as Gharshana starring Venkatesh.
Today was the Tamil Movie festival at ISB. Screening was at the Rhapsoder Manu's place. Starting off with Kalaba Kathalan, an Arya movie, which we didnt manage to complete, we went on to see Arinthum Ariyamalum, another Arya movie. The hero in these two movies is from my batch. After watching him on the screen for the first time (this was quite a while back), is when I remembered that this guy attended 12th Standard Physics and Chemistry Tuition with me.
Then lunch happened. We came back and the festival continued. We completed that film and went on to watch Aayutha Ezhuthu, which was made as Yuva in Hindi. Here we got a chance to compare the way all the actors had performed. We came to a conclusion that Abhishek Bacchan performed better than Madhavan. But both Sooriya and Siddharth outperformed Ajay Devgan and Vivek Oberoi respectively.
After this, we started another movie Yae Nee Romba Azhaga Irukkae, that translates to Hey, you look very beautiful. A very nice movie, but we had to stop it half-way because most of us had seen it more than three times.
Final and uncompleted one was Kaakha Kaakha, a story based on the life of an IPS Officer. An amazing storyline, wonderful screenplay and dialogues. This movie was also re-made in Telugu as Gharshana starring Venkatesh.
Tuesday, June 06, 2006
Term One Ends
Term One got over yesterday. Four exams in two days. No big deal. This was the same situation in BITS for me. So it was nothing new. But for a few here, four was like an overdose of exams.
Starting with Finance and Economics on Monday, the Term ended with Statistics and Marketing Exams on Tuesday.
Finance was interesting. The best part about the Open Book Exam was a section where the Prof has written in the question - Please refer to Page number 37 of handout 2 for any clarifications. I was like "what??". I felt a bit humiliated, but then you know, it just makes work easy if you follow whats written.
Economics was way too funny for a paper. The omly paper where you can be GOD. So, you dont have any cost to produce any good. You decide the market, when competitors get in and all that what follows in the same lines. Then you calculate the price based on any or all of the conditions discussed above. So, my theories on economics were more descriptive rather than being analytical. I always believed that Economics involved a lot of calculations, but you know what - I AM GOD and I decide what to do.
Statistics was more from a business perspective. So all the dirty mathematical work that happened in Probability and Statistics was left to a software called JMP. We call it Jump. Anyway, Stats is a course where I felt anything between comfortable and not comfortable.
Marketing was the final one. When I finished the paper, I felt much better than how I had felt for the other exams. For a moment, I thought that there was one course that actually made me feel interested and involved. Well, we cant say anything just because the scores arent out yet. But definitely, marketing right now, seems to be an exciting course. Hope the excitement continues.
Starting with Finance and Economics on Monday, the Term ended with Statistics and Marketing Exams on Tuesday.
Finance was interesting. The best part about the Open Book Exam was a section where the Prof has written in the question - Please refer to Page number 37 of handout 2 for any clarifications. I was like "what??". I felt a bit humiliated, but then you know, it just makes work easy if you follow whats written.
Economics was way too funny for a paper. The omly paper where you can be GOD. So, you dont have any cost to produce any good. You decide the market, when competitors get in and all that what follows in the same lines. Then you calculate the price based on any or all of the conditions discussed above. So, my theories on economics were more descriptive rather than being analytical. I always believed that Economics involved a lot of calculations, but you know what - I AM GOD and I decide what to do.
Statistics was more from a business perspective. So all the dirty mathematical work that happened in Probability and Statistics was left to a software called JMP. We call it Jump. Anyway, Stats is a course where I felt anything between comfortable and not comfortable.
Marketing was the final one. When I finished the paper, I felt much better than how I had felt for the other exams. For a moment, I thought that there was one course that actually made me feel interested and involved. Well, we cant say anything just because the scores arent out yet. But definitely, marketing right now, seems to be an exciting course. Hope the excitement continues.
Sunday, June 04, 2006
ARR - The Guru
A R Rahman IS definitely the Guru. Check this video recorded during an interview for Sun TV. The tune is just amazing. Though we have heard this song with the complete orchestra, this piece with just the piano is mindblowing. Die-hard music fans will be able to appreciate the minor notes that are being played and also the variations. I was just thrilled.
Let me know your comments once you've heard it.
Let me know your comments once you've heard it.
Friday, June 02, 2006
Sand Sculpture Festival
Last year I was there! It happens in this place called Brighton in the United Kingdom. Brighton is very famous for its pebble beach. Its about an hour on the ThamesLink Train from London.
The Sand Sculpture Festival happens every year in Brighton.
Last year's theme was Egypt. You can check out the photos by clicking here.
World's Largest Stock Market
The New York stock exchange (NYSE) and the pan-European exchange Euronext are merging to create the world's largest stock market.
The NYSE agreed late yesterday to buy Euronext for $9.9bn (£5.3bn) in cash and stock, trumping a larger offer from Deutsche Börse.
If approved by regulators and shareholders, NYSE's acquisition of Euronext would create a single platform where traders could deal in stocks, options, futures, commodities and corporate bonds across two continents - for up to 12 hours daily.
Click here to read more.
The NYSE agreed late yesterday to buy Euronext for $9.9bn (£5.3bn) in cash and stock, trumping a larger offer from Deutsche Börse.
If approved by regulators and shareholders, NYSE's acquisition of Euronext would create a single platform where traders could deal in stocks, options, futures, commodities and corporate bonds across two continents - for up to 12 hours daily.
Click here to read more.
Thursday, June 01, 2006
MGEC
After I got to know about this website called Youtube, I have decided to use it to the best.
For people who don't know about youtube, its a website from where one can share short videos.
So, here's another one. Mr.Amit Bubna, who taught the first half of managerial economics to the whole batch, talks to us on a friendly note on the last day of the class.
Same as the previous one. All the rules apply. Dont forget to SIZE the window to small.
Click on the video window to play it directly. If you cant see the video window, then CLICK HERE.
For people who don't know about youtube, its a website from where one can share short videos.
So, here's another one. Mr.Amit Bubna, who taught the first half of managerial economics to the whole batch, talks to us on a friendly note on the last day of the class.
Same as the previous one. All the rules apply. Dont forget to SIZE the window to small.
Click on the video window to play it directly. If you cant see the video window, then CLICK HERE.
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