Search This Blog

Friday, 21 March 2025

NMIMS CDOE Sem 1 Assignments June 25- 9967480770

 

GET BEST QUALITY SOLVED ASSIGNMENTS

VISIT WWW.SMUSOLVEDASSIGNMENTS.COM

Or Mail us at solvemyassignments@gmail.com

YOU MAY CALL US ON - 7506193173

WHATSAPP NUMBER- 9967480770

 

INTERNAL ASSIGNMENT APPLICABLE FOR JUNE 2025 EXAMINATION

 

Business Communication

Q1. Imagine you are a marketing manager for a new Indian fitness app called “FitIndia”. Your aim to create a persuasive message to motivate young adults to adopt a healthier lifestyle. How would you craft your message to resonate with this target audience?

Q2 (A). A multinational company in India with a diverse workforce recognizes the importance of inclusivity and respect in its business communication. The company aims to create a cohesive work environment where employees from all backgrounds feel valued and understood. To achieve this, the management wants to implement a strategy for using bias-free language that considers the regional and linguistic diversity for its employees. Propose a comprehensive strategy for using bias-free language in this multicultural business environment to promote inclusivity and respect.

Q2 (B) The marketing team at a company is struggling to keep up with the changing landscape of social media. They are using outdated methods and are not effectively engaging with stakeholders. The team is also not using social media to its full potential to inform, persuade or build relationships. The CEO has called a meeting to discuss how the team can better adapt to the changing landscape of social media. Evaluate the impact of social networks on business communication and how they have transformed interactions with stakeholders?

 

Financial Accounting

Q1 You are given the following partial information for AlphaEx Ltd. for the year ended March 31, 2024:

Required

1.     Compute the cost of goods sold (COGS) and Gross Profit for the year ended March 31, 2024.

2.     Prepare the income statement (from Net Sales down to Net Income) for the year ended March 31, 2024. Clearly show each line item, including your calculations for Cost of Goods Sold, Gross profit, Operating Income, and Net Income after tax.

3.     Calculate the ending Retained Earnings on March 31, 2024, after the company closes its Net Income into Retained Earnings. Show your computation step by step.

4.     Using the year-end balances, compute and interpret two financial ratios- for example, the Current Ratio and the Debt-to-Equity Ratio. In a brief paragraph, discuss what these ratios indicate about AlphaEx’s liquidity and long-term solvency.

1. Income Statement (Partially Reported)

Amount (Rs.)

Net Sales:

9,00,000

Beginning inventory (April 1, 2023):

60,000

Net Purchases:

3,20,000

Ending inventory (March 31, 2024):

50,000

Operating expenses (excluding depreciation):

1,40,000

Depreciation expense:

30,000

Interest Expense:

20,000

Income tax rate:

25%

 

 

2. Balance Sheet (Selected items as at March 31, 2024)

 

Cash & Cash equivalents:

1,00,000

Accounts receivable:

80,000

Inventory:

50,000

Property, Plant & Equipment (net):

4,00,000

Accounts Payable:

40,000

Long-term debt:

2,00,000

Common stock:

1,50,000

Retained Earnings (at the beginning):

80,000

 

Q2 (A) A mid-sized manufacturing company has suffered significant losses over the past two years, casting doubt on its ability to continue as a going concern. Critically examine how the concept of going concern influences the accounting process in such a situation. In your analysis, discuss the ethical and professional judgements an accountant must make when deciding whether the business should continue applying going concern assumptions in its financial statements.

Q2 (B) Financial accounting is based on fundamental principles and assumptions that guide the preparation of financial statements. However, with the rapid advancement of technology and the increasing complexity of modern business transactions, some argue that traditional accounting framework may no longer be sufficient. Critically, evaluate the relevance of traditional financial accounting principles (such as the historical cost principle, accrual basis, and consistency) in today’s business environment. In your response, analyze potential modifications or alternative approaches that could enhance financial reporting accuracy and decision-making for stakeholders.

 

Marketing Management

Q1 A premium home appliance brand, CoolCasa, has been facing stagnating sales despite offering high-quality, durable, and technologically advanced products. Market research indicates that younger consumers, particularly millennials and Gen Z, prefer smart, connected appliances but also focus on affordability, brand experience, and sustainability. The company’s traditional marketing approach, which emphasizes product durability and engineering excellence, seems less appealing to this segment.

Question:

Based on consumer behaviour principles, evaluate what key factors should CoolCasa consider to realign its marketing strategy and better appeal to younger buyers?

Q2 (A) FreshBite Foods, a mid-sized packaged snacks brand in India, has noticed a decline in sales of its traditional fried chips among urban consumers. Market research suggests that health-conscious millennials and Gen Z consumers prefer baked, organic, or low-fat alternatives. FreshBite’s management is considering launching a new line of healthy snacks but is unsure how to understand and influence consumer buying behaviour effectively.

Question:

Based on the given scenario, analyze the key factors influencing consumer buying behaviour that FreshBite Foods should consider before launching its new healthy snack line.

Q2 (B) GlowCare, a new skincare startup in India, has launched a premium herbal face cream targeting young professionals. Despite high-quality ingredients and dermatologist endorsements, the product is struggling to gain traction in the market. Competitors with well-established brands dominate consumer trust, and many potential customers perceive GlowCare’s product as expensive. The management is now exploring ways to enhance customer value and improve brand positioning.

Question:

Based on the given scenario, apply marketing management principles to show how GlowCare can build customer value through its product, service, and brand strategies to gain a competitive edge.

 

GET BEST QUALITY SOLVED ASSIGNMENTS

VISIT WWW.SMUSOLVEDASSIGNMENTS.COM

Or Mail us at solvemyassignments@gmail.com

YOU MAY CALL US ON - 7506193173

WHATSAPP NUMBER- 9967480770

 

Micro Economics & Macro Economics

Q1 Rohan owns a local organic farming business that supplies fresh fruits and vegetables to supermarkets and online grocery platforms. Recently, he has seen an increase in demand due to rising consumer preference for organic produce. However, he is struggling to increase supply due to challenges such as unpredictable weather conditions, high labor costs, rising transportation expenses, and government farming regulations. As an agricultural consultant, analyze the concept of supply chain and its determining factors to help Rohan expand his business.

Q2 (A) Aarav owns a chain of fast-food restaurants that specializes in gourmet burgers. Recently, he noticed that when he increased the price of his signature burger by 10%, sales dropped significantly. However, when he increased the price of soft drinks by 15%, there was little to no impact on sales. Aarav is now trying to understand how price changes affect demand for different products in his restaurant and how he can use this information to make better pricing decisions. As a business consultant, analyze the concept of price elasticity of demand and recommend pricing strategies that Aarav can use to maximize revenue without losing customers.

Q2 (B) Neha, a young professional, recently received a promotion with significant salary hike. Excited about her increased income, she decides to upgrade her lifestyle by purchasing premium organic food products, high-end fashion brands, and a gym membership. However, she also notices that some of her colleagues, despite their higher incomes, continue buying budget-friendly brands and prefer saving rather than increasing their spending. As an economist, analyze the impact of the income effect on Neha’s consumption choices. In your response explain the concept of the income effect and how changes in income influence consumer demand for normal goods, inferior goods, and luxury goods.

 

Organizational Behavior

Q1 Rahul is a young entrepreneur who recently started a tech startup for educational apps. He is imaginative and often comes up with innovative ideas, but his plans lack detail and structure. His team appreciates his enthusiasm and collaborative approach, but he struggles to give critical feedback. During a product launch, Rahul became anxious about meeting expectations, which affected his decision-making under pressure. Despite these challenges, his curiosity and willingness to learn keep him motivated. He realizes he needs to improve his leadership skills to grow his startup.

Question: Using the Big Five Model of Personality, evaluate Rahul’s personality traits and their impact on his effectiveness as a leader. Suggest strategies to enhance his leadership style while leveraging his strengths. How can he engage his team more effectively?

Q2 (A) Nisha is a talented graphic designer working at a marketing agency. She recently discovered that her colleague, who has similar qualifications and experience, receives a higher salary despite having a comparable workload. This realization has left Nisha feeling demotivated and less enthusiastic about her projects. She starts putting in less effort and avoids taking on additional responsibilities, as she feels her contributions are not being valued equally.

Question: Using Equity Theory of Motivation, analyze Nisha’s reaction to the pay disparity. How can her manager address this situation to restore her motivation and productivity?

Q2 (B) Amit and Priya, two senior project managers in a consulting firm, frequently disagree on project execution strategies. Amit prefers a structured, process-driven approach, while Priya values flexibility and adaptability. Their ongoing conflicts are delaying project timelines and creating tension within the team. The manager notices this issue and wants to intervene.

Question: Analyze the nature of the conflict between Amit and Priya using conflict management techniques. Which technique would be most effective in resolving their conflict, and why? Justify your answer with logical reasoning.

 

Quantitative Methods - I

Q1 From a large batch of batteries, a sample of size 50 is drawn. The average lifespan of the batteries is 1200 hours with a standard deviation of 200 hours.

1. Find the probability that the mean lifespan of the sample is less than 1150 hours.

2. Calculate the 95% confidence interval for the sample mean lifespan.

3. Discuss the effect of increasing the sample size to 100 on the standard error and the probability calculation.

Q2 (A) A deck of cards contains 10 red and 6 black cards. If two cards are randomly drawn without replacement, what is the probability that both cards drawn are black?

What is the probability that at least one of the two cards drawn is red?

Q2 (B) A milling machine is set to produce rods that have an average length of 15.00 cm. The machine is known to have a standard deviation () of 0.3 cm. The customer specifies the rod length to be within 14.80 and 15.20 cm. What is the acceptance percentage given the setting and age of the machine (age determines the standard deviation)?

 

GET BEST QUALITY SOLVED ASSIGNMENTS

VISIT WWW.SMUSOLVEDASSIGNMENTS.COM

Or Mail us at solvemyassignments@gmail.com

YOU MAY CALL US ON - 7506193173

WHATSAPP NUMBER- 9967480770

 

NMIMS SOLVED ASSIGNMENTS

NMIMS ASSIGNMENTS

NMIMS MBA ASSIGNMENTS

NMIMS JUNE 2025 ASSIGNMENTS

NMIMS JUNE 2025 PGDBM SOLVED ASSIGNMENTS

NMIMS MBA SOLVED ASSIGNMENTS

NMIMS MBA PROJECT REPORT

NMIMS PROJECTS

NMIMS PGDBM ASSIGNMENTS

NMIMS JUNE 2025 SOLVED ASSIGNMENTS

NGASCE SOLVED ASSIGNMENTS 2025

NMIMS PGDBM SEMESTR 1 SOLVED ASSIGNMENTS

NMIMS UNIQUE ASSIGNMENTS

NMIMS CUSTOMIZED ASSIGNMENTS

NMIMS READY TO UPLOAD ASSIGNMENTS

NMIMS ASSIGNMENTS SOLVED MBA

NMIMS BEST QUALITY ASSIGNMENTS

Wednesday, 26 February 2025

NMIMS CDOE APRIL 25 SOLVED ASSIGNMENTS 9967480770

 

GET BEST QUALITY SOLVED ASSIGNMENTS

VISIT WWW.SMUSOLVEDASSIGNMENTS.COM

Or Mail us at solvemyassignments@gmail.com

YOU MAY CALL US ON - 7506193173

WHATSAPP NUMBER- 9967480770

 

INTERNAL ASSIGNMENT APPLICABLE FOR APRIL 2025 EXAMINATION

 

Quantitative Methods

PLEASE NOTE:  This assignment is application based, you have to apply what you have learnt in this subject into real life scenario. You will find most of the information through internet search and the remaining from your common sense. None of the answers appear directly in the textbook chapters but are based on the content in the chapter

 

Q1. Propose a method to use Excel for solving a binomial distribution problem, and discuss the advantages and limitations of using Excel for such statistical analyses? Solve the below problem using excel or manual method. A company manufactures light bulbs, and it is known that 5% of the light bulbs are defective. If a quality control inspector randomly selects 20 light bulbs from a production batch, what is the probability that exactly 2 of them are defective? (10 Marks)

Q2. A cereal company claims that the average weight of its cereal boxes is 500 grams. A quality control manager doubts this claim and randomly selects a sample of 50 boxes. The sample has a mean weight of 495 grams and a standard deviation of 10 grams. Formulate the null hypothesis (H0) and the alternate hypothesis (H1). – Perform a statistical to determine if the mean weight of the cereal boxes is significantly different from 500 grams at a significance level of 0.05 (10 Marks)

Q3(A) Evaluate the importance of understanding the null and alternate hypotheses in the context of hypothesis testing and its impact on research outcomes?

State Null and Alternate Hypothesis for below scenarios

A health organization claims that the average sodium content in a specific brand of soup is at least 400 mg per serving. A nutritionist doubts this claim and wants to verify if the average sodium content is less than 400 mg. State Null and Alternate Hypothesis. A pharmaceutical company claims that their new drug reduces cholesterol by an average of 50 mg/dL. A medical researcher wants to verify if the average reduction is not equal to 50 mg/dL. (5 Marks)

Q3 (B)  Given the following data points for variables X and Y:

X: 2, 4, 6, 8, 10

Y: 3, 5, 7, 9, 11

Calculate the Pearson correlation coefficient between X and Y. Given the following data points for variables X and Y:

X: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5

Y: 2, 4, 5, 4, 5

Determine the equation of the regression line (Y = a + bX)

 

Financial Accounting

PLEASE NOTE:  This assignment is application based, you have to apply what you have learnt in this subject into real life scenario. You will find most of the information through internet search and the remaining from your common sense. None of the answers appear directly in the textbook chapters but are based on the content in the chapter

 

Q1. ABC Ltd., a small manufacturing company, is struggling with maintaining accurate financial records due to the complexity of its transactions. The management has approached you, a financial consultant, for guidance.

Required:

Explain how the accounting process (from identifying transactions to preparing financial statements) can help the company streamline its financial records.

Highlight the potential risks of skipping key steps like journalizing or preparing a trial balance, using hypothetical examples.

Note: Your answer should include real-world applications of accounting principles and demonstrate how they align with ABC Ltd.’s operational challenges.  (10 Marks)

Q2. XYZ Ltd. provides the following details from its Profit and Loss Statement for the year ended March 31, 2024:

– Revenue: Rs.25,00,000

– Cost of Goods Sold: Rs.15,00,000

– Selling and Administrative Expenses: Rs.4,00,000

– Depreciation Expense: Rs.1,50,000

– Interest Expense: Rs.50,000

– Income Tax Rate: 30% Additionally:

– The company sold a piece of machinery for Rs.1,00,000, resulting in a gain of Rs.20,000.

Required:

Prepare the Income Statement for XYZ Ltd. for the year ended March 31, 2024. Calculate the following ratios: Net Profit Margin Operating Profit Margin Interest Coverage Ratio  (10 Marks)

Q3 (A) Evaluate the impact of a high Debt-to-Equity ratio on the financial stability and future growth potential of a company. Using a hypothetical company’s financial data, identify possible risks associated with the ratio and recommend strategies to improve the company’s leverage position. Justify your recommendations based on financial principles and industry benchmarks. (5 Marks)

Q3 (B) XYZ Ltd. has the following information from its cash flow activities for the year ended March 31, 2025:

– Net Income: Rs.5,00,000

– Depreciation: Rs.1,00,000

– Increase in Accounts Receivable: Rs.2,00,000

– Decrease in Accounts Payable: Rs.50,000

– Purchase of Machinery: Rs.3,00,000

– Dividend Paid: Rs.1,00,000

Required:

Prepare the Cash Flow from Operating Activities using the indirect method. Analyze how changes in working capital components impacted the cash flow from operating activities. (5 Marks)

 

Organizational Behavior

PLEASE NOTE:  This assignment is application based, you have to apply what you have learnt in this subject into real life scenario. You will find most of the information through internet search and the remaining from your common sense. None of the answers appear directly in the textbook chapters but are based on the content in the chapter

Q1. PowerTech Solutions, a mid-sized IT company, is transitioning to Agile project management to enhance productivity and customer satisfaction. However, the change initiative is encountering resistance from employees, especially middle management, who are reluctant to adapt. Workshops have been held, but they have not been effective in addressing the concerns or boosting employee morale. Using Lewin’s Change Management Model, analyze the challenges a mentioned company faces in implementing Agile project management. Propose specific steps from this model to overcome these challenges and ensure successful adoption of the new framework. (10 Marks)

Q2. A GTech Innovatives    company specializing in renewable energy solutions, has seen a decline in employee creativity and proactive problem-solving. The leadership recently introduced a competitive bonus system tied to achieving sales targets, but it led to stress and unhealthy competition among employees. A review highlighted that employees value personal growth, teamwork, and the ability to contribute meaningfully to the company’s mission. The management is debating whether to redesign their approach using Vroom’s Expectancy Theory or McClelland’s Theory of Needs to better align employee motivation with organizational goals. Evaluate how Vroom’s Expectancy Theory or McClelland’s Theory of Needs can be applied to address the motivational challenges at GTech Innovatives. Recommend the more effective theory for fostering creativity and collaboration, justifying your choice.  (10 Marks)

Q3 (A)   Geeta, a team leader at BTech Solutions, is known for being highly organized and detail-oriented, but her rigid adherence to schedules sometimes causes tension with her team. She finds it challenging to adapt to last-minute changes and struggles to understand why her team members prioritize flexibility over deadlines. Using the Big Five Personality Traits, describe Geeta’s behavior and suggest how an understanding of her personality traits can help her improve her leadership effectiveness.

Q3 (B)  Rishabh, a senior marketing manager at Creative Works, is observing his newest team member, Rita, who often misses deadlines and seems disengaged in meetings. Based on these observations, Rishabh concludes that Rita is unmotivated and assigns her fewer responsibilities. However, Rita    later shares that she was overwhelmed with the new work environment and lacked clear guidance on tasks. Using the Perception Process, describe Rishabh’s perception of Rita at different stages of the process and how he    can improve his perception to avoid misjudging his team members in the future.  (5 Marks)

 

Business Communication

PLEASE NOTE:  This assignment is application based, you have to apply what you have learnt in this subject into real life scenario. You will find most of the information through internet search and the remaining from your common sense. None of the answers appear directly in the textbook chapters but are based on the content in the chapter

Q1. A marketing firm is considering increasing its reliance on digital media for business communication. What opportunities and challenges might this present for reaching their target audience and achieving their marketing goals? (10 Marks)

Q2. A social media platform is facing a surge of hate speech and misinformation. How can they ethically moderate this content while upholding users’ freedom of expression and avoiding accusations of censorship? (10 Marks)

Q3 (A). You’re revising your company’s email communication guidelines. Evaluate the impact of requiring bullet points and headings in all business emails, considering their potential to improve clarity and engagement while also analyzing any possible drawbacks. (5 Marks)

Q3 (B) You’re the marketing lead for an online clothing retailer. Design a plan for optimizing email/SMS messages for mobile to improve declining open and click-through rates. Focus on readability and user engagement.  (5 Marks)

 

Micro Economics & Macro Economics

PLEASE NOTE:  This assignment is application based, you have to apply what you have learnt in this subject into real life scenario. You will find most of the information through internet search and the remaining from your common sense. None of the answers appear directly in the textbook chapters but are based on the content in the chapter

Q1. Analyze    how a company can utilize consumer demand analysis to explore potential markets for new eco-friendly products. Discuss factors such as identifying consumer preferences, segmenting the market, evaluating external trends, and adapting strategies. Discuss how these factors influence the company’s interpretation of consumer behavior and strategy formulation. Support your analysis with    examples. (10 Marks)

Q2. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the demand for personal protective equipment (PPE) masks surged dramatically due to heightened health concerns. However, contrary to the typical behavior predicted by the law of demand, the price of PPE masks also increased despite the high demand. In some cases, the price even rose exponentially as suppliers struggled to meet the increasing demand. On the other hand, in certain regions, there were instances where masks were in abundant supply, yet prices remained relatively high due to hoarding and panic buying. Analyze the exceptions to the law of demand and supply observed in this scenario concerning PPE masks. How do these exceptions challenge traditional economic theories, and what factors contribute to this deviation from the standard demand-supply relationship? (10 Marks)

Q3 (A) XYZ Automobiles, a mid-sized car manufacturer, recently expanded its production facilities to increase its monthly output from 10,000 to 50,000 units. With this expansion, the company observed a reduction in the per-unit production cost. The company invested in advanced machinery, hired specialized managers for different departments, and secured better financing terms from banks. Evaluate how XYZ Automobiles benefited from economies of scale in reducing its average cost of production. In your answer, explain how technical, managerial, and financial economies of scale contributed to the reduction in costs and the company’s overall efficiency. (5 Marks)

Q3 (B) Imagine that the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has set an inflation target of 4% for the upcoming fiscal year. However, during this period, India faced external shocks, such as rising global oil prices and supply chain disruptions caused by a natural disaster. Domestic inflation rises to 6% due to increased food prices and wages. In response, the RBI tightens monetary policy by raising interest rates to control inflation. Businesses, particularly small and medium enterprises (SMEs), are struggling to cope with the higher borrowing costs, while consumers are feeling the strain of rising prices on essential goods. At the same time, the government is pushing for infrastructure development to fuel economic growth. Analyze the impact of inflation targeting on economic stability and growth in India, considering the challenges faced by businesses and consumers in the given scenario. How can inflation targeting contribute to economic stability, and what are the trade-offs involved? What challenges might the RBI encounter in trying to achieve the inflation target, and how could it balance between controlling inflation and promoting growth?   (5 Marks)

 

Marketing Management

PLEASE NOTE:  This assignment is application based, you have to apply what you have learnt in this subject into real life scenario. You will find most of the information through internet search and the remaining from your common sense. None of the answers appear directly in the textbook chapters but are based on the content in the chapter

 

Q1. Meera’s family recently moved to Pune, and she wanted to buy a washing machine for their new home. Her decision-making process involved several steps. Initially, she identified the need after struggling with handwashing clothes. She began researching online, reading reviews, and watching videos comparing brands. Her search revealed that consumers valued energy efficiency, ease of use, and after-sales service. At a local electronics store, Meera interacted with a salesperson who emphasized the features of a mid-range washing machine that matched her requirements. However, her children were drawn to another model with a colorful digital display. Influenced by her family’s preferences and the salesperson’s advice, Meera decided on a slightly costlier model that included advanced features and a sleek design. After the purchase, Meera felt satisfied because the machine exceeded her expectations, offering convenience and efficiency. However, a week later, she faced issues with installation delays, which slightly dampened her overall experience.

Question Analyze the factors influencing Meera’s buying behavior and decision-making process in this case. Suggest how the store could improve its post-purchase services to enhance customer satisfaction. (10 Marks)

Q2. Rahul owns EcoLife, a brand specializing in eco-friendly personal care products like biodegradable toothbrushes and organic soaps. Initially, Rahul tried to appeal to all customer segments but struggled with low sales and weak brand recognition. After consulting a marketing expert, he decided to adopt a customer value–driven marketing strategy. Rahul identified urban millennials as his target audience—individuals concerned about sustainability and willing to pay a premium for eco-friendly products. He tailored his products and marketing efforts to their preferences by offering subscription plans, attractive packaging, and detailed product stories about sustainability. Rahul also partnered with influencers to promote EcoLife on social media and created engaging educational content about environmental impact. Within six months, sales grew by 40%, and his customer base expanded significantly. However, scaling up production to meet increased demand remained a challenge.

Question

Evaluate how Rahul’s customer value–driven marketing strategy helped EcoLife create value for its target customers.    Suggest one way Rahul can address the challenge of scaling production while maintaining quality. (10 Marks)

Q3 (A) Aditi Sharma owns a boutique home décor store, Artisan Elegance, in Bengaluru. She noticed that her sales had plateaued despite having unique, handcrafted products. Her store’s website lacked detailed product descriptions and had minimal customer engagement features. To address these challenges, Aditi revamped her website to include high-quality images, personalized product suggestions based on browsing history, and an option for customers to share their home décor stories. She also launched a social media campaign encouraging customers to post photos of her products in their homes using the hashtag #ArtisanEleganceHomes. In return, participants received discount coupons. The campaign gained traction, leading to increased social media engagement and website visits. Many customers reported feeling more connected to the brand, stating that the personal touch enhanced their shopping experience. Six months later, Aditi observed a 30% increase in sales and a noticeable improvement in repeat customers. However, she also encountered challenges, such as managing increased website traffic and responding to numerous customer queries on social media.

Question

Analyze how Aditi created customer value and engagement for Artisan Elegance. Discuss the role of technology and personalized marketing in her strategy. Suggest one improvement to her current approach to address the challenges she faces. (5 Marks)

Q3 (B)  Ravi Patel runs a premium bakery, Sweet Cravings, in Mumbai, known for its artisan cakes and pastries. While customers appreciated the quality of his offerings, some found the prices high compared to competitors. Ravi decided to analyze his pricing strategy to balance customer perceptions and profitability. He conducted a survey and discovered that customers valued the use of organic ingredients, unique flavors, and personalized designs. To capture this value, Ravi introduced a tiered pricing strategy: a standard range for budget-conscious customers, a premium range for those seeking exclusivity, and a customizable luxury range for special occasions. Additionally, he improved communication of value through detailed product descriptions highlighting the premium ingredients and craftsmanship. Over the next three months, Ravi saw an increase in overall sales and customer satisfaction, though some customers in the standard range expressed concerns about affordability.

Question

Analyze how Ravi’s pricing strategy reflects an understanding of customer value. Suggest one solution to address the affordability concerns of customers in the standard range while maintaining profitability.  (5 Marks)

 

Strategic Management

1. You are the CMO of Godrej Consumer Products, and sequentially sales are dropping every quarter – and the steepest decline (~10%) has happened in in this quarter. Naturally, the management is worried about this situation. In these circumstances. Analyze the reasons for the dropping revenue. What strategic approaches would you suggest in this situation? Give valid reasons to support your answer. (10 Marks)

2. Given the size of the Indian market, the NBA is keen to expand into India and they have hired your Consulting firm to advise them. Describe (at least two) tools you’d use in your analysis and why you’re choosing them. Summarize your Action Plan and a high-level timeline. (10 Marks)

You are the Head – Marketing Strategy for X-India. Your business is dependent on Paid Accounts and Advertising. However, despite the large number of consumers using your app, Advertising Revenue has been flat for the past 3 quarters. In this situation…

a) Create a strategy to attract advertisers. Provide examples to support your answer. (5 Marks)

b) Develop two strategies to communicate with your advertisers. (5 Marks)

 

Operations Management

1. Discuss the importance of an effective layout design in operations management and compare the various layout types commonly implemented in manufacturing and service industries, outlining their advantages and disadvantages. Then, evaluate the specific challenges and opportunities related to both electric vehicle (EV) assembly plants and traditional automotive assembly lines. Conclude by recommending the most appropriate layout for each, justifying how the chosen layout optimally addresses the distinct requirements and operational challenges of each format. (10 Marks)

2. Amazon Fresh is a prominent online grocery delivery platform that has gained popularity for its seamless operations and timely deliveries. A crucial factor contributing to its success is its advanced inventory management system. Discuss the concept of Amazon Fresh and how it differs from traditional brick-and-mortar grocery stores. Highlight various inventory management techniques commonly used in the e-commerce grocery industry and evaluate the key components and strategies implemented by Amazon Fresh to ensure operational efficiency and enhance customer satisfaction. (10 Marks)

3. A renowned artisanal coffee shop chain is planning to open a new mid-sized outlet in your locality. Leveraging their expertise in brewing and branding, they are confident about efficiently managing the new coffee shop’s operations. The shop’s offerings and the associated requirements are as follows:

Standard single orders (e.g., cappuccinos, lattes): Require 1 barista for 5 minutes per order.

Extended multiple orders (e.g., group orders): Require 2 baristas, each working for 8 minutes per order.

Custom beverages (e.g., personalized drinks): Require 3 baristas, each working for 10 minutes per order.

The demand forecast for the next four weeks is as follows:

Order Type     Anticipated Demand (Next 4 Weeks)

Standard single orders 3000

Extended multiple orders       1500

Custom beverages      500

a) Estimate the aggregate capacity required to fulfill the anticipated demand for the next four weeks. If the coffee shop employs 15 baristas, working 6 days a week for 8 hours per day, calculate the current capacity available. Compare the required capacity with the available capacity to determine if the shop can meet the demand. If not, calculate the additional capacity needed. (5 Marks)

b) Propose strategies to address the issue of underutilization of capacity and calculate the number of baristas required to meet 100% capacity utilization. (5 Marks)

 

Business Law

Q1. Intellectual Property Rights are an important asset for an organization. In today’s competitive business environment there is a need to protect and enforce Intellectual Property Rights. Please highlight the nature and types of Intellectual Property Rights and give one real life example on how businesses can achieve competitive advantage through Intellectual Property Rights?     (10 Marks)

Q2. Environment Protection is a key objective linked to business goals and it impacts organizations, if they violate laws governing environment protection. Authorities like National Green Tribunal have come down heavily on organizations that violate such laws. List down two (2) judgments/orders where the National Green Tribunal has passed orders/directions to ensure protection of environment, and which has adversely impacted businesses.          (10 Marks)

Q3. Healthcom is an Indian health tech company that has products which deploy cardiology monitoring technology in India. Healthcom’s products are always approved by the DCGI (Drug Controller General of India) and only then they are launched in India. Healthcom has received a request from a Public Information Officer of the DCGI’s office to disclose all technical details and commercial information of the patented technology that it uses in its products. This request is based on a RTI application which the Public Information Officer has received from a consumer in India. In light of the above facts, can you advise Healthcom on:

A) Whether Healthcom is required to disclose such information under Right to Information Act, 2005? Can it deny the disclosing of such information especially if it is requested under Right to Information Act, 2005? (5 Marks)

B) List of exemptions from disclosure of information under Right to Information Act, 2005 and the relevant legal provisions. (5 Marks) Exemptions from Disclosure under the RTI Act, 2005

 

Essentials of HRM

Q1). Fusion Food Mart  is a family-owned  Indian supermarket  chain,  Anil Kumar, its present Chief Executive Officer (CEO), is the grandson of the organisation’s cofounder. The company never planned too much on the HR Plan they did HR planning as and when required Anil’s daughter, Ravina, is the president of the company, appointed you to develop an HR plan for a Fusion Food Mart having branches in major towns in India: What specific external and Internal factors would be important for you to consider. (10 Marks)

Q2). Satya Sai InfoTech is an Information Technology Company in Hyderabad. The five year old company now wants to expand its branches to Bangalore, Gurgaon and Mumbai so they realize to create a vibrant human resource department for managing people functions. You have been appointed as their GM – HR. Explain to the company management, what will be the scope of your department in this expansion and justify the need of HR department.      (10 Marks)

Q3). Rohit is working as a Sales Executive from past three years in an FMCG company. He is a very hard working and dedicated employee. His performance has also been good consistently but in the absence of good connection with the immediate boss Ashok he never got his fair share of success. In this situation he searched a job and wants to resign. He communicated the same to Ashok who is his reporting Manager. Ashok knows about his hard work and realized the injustice happened with him. Ashok knows it happened in the lack of proper appraisal system and lack of career planning but now he can’t do anything expect to lose an important talent

A) Suggest Ashok  in  developing  an  appropriate  appraisal    Why  the  effective Performance appraisal system required?   (5 Marks)

B) What is career planning and why it is important? In the absence of incentives does career planning help in retention? Mention all the pros and cons of career planning. (5 Marks)

 

Business Communication

1. The Mumbai Municipal Corporation (MMC) is planning a large-scale renovation of the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) railway station. To ensure the project’s success, the MMC decides to hire an external contractor with expertise in historical restoration and modern infrastructure. What key factors should the MMC consider when evaluating the bids received in response to their RFP for the CSMT renovation project?    (10 Marks)

2. Aryan Industries, a textile company in Surat, is launching a new line of sustainable fabrics. They plan to use social media, email marketing, and press releases to promote their products. However, their previous marketing campaigns have been inconsistent and lacked a clear brand voice. How can Aryan Industries ensure consistency and professionalism in their communication to project a strong and credible company image for their new sustainable fabric line?   (10 Marks)

A small handicraft business in rural Rajasthan, “Desert Designs,” struggled to reach customers beyond their village. They adopted a mobile-first strategy, creating an online store accessible via smartphones and utilizing social media for marketing. This allowed them to connect with customers across India, receive online payments, and significantly expand their business.

Answer the following questions in light of the information provided.

a) How has the mobile revolution contributed to economic growth and empowerment, particularly in the Indian context? (5 Marks)

b) Discuss the role of mobile technology in bridging the digital divide and fostering inclusivity in India. (5 Marks)

 

Decision Science

1. Calculate Quartile Deviation from the following

Earnings (Rs)  Number of Persons

25        25

26        70

27        210

28        275

29        430

30        550

31        340

32        130

33        90

34        55

35        25 (10 marks)

2. Calculate Median from the following

Class – Interval           Number of Students

0-10                                         5

10-20                                       8

20-30                                       7

30-40                                       12

40-50                                       28

50-60                                       20

60-70                                       10

70-80                                       10 (10 marks)

3.a) A bag contains 6 white and 4 black balls. Two balls are drawn at random one after another without replacement. Find the probability that both drawn balls are white. (5 Marks)

3.b) In an intelligence test administered on 1000 children, the average was 42 and standard deviation was 24. Find the number of children exceeding a score of 50.   (5 Marks)

 

Corporate Finance

1. Mr. Joshi is the Finance Manager at M/s Vriddhi Impex. The Company is looking at lateral growth and diversification into garment making from cloth making. For doing this, there needs to be put up a factory with all the latest machinery for cutting and stitching garments. The cost of acquisition of land, setting up the factory and buying the machinery works out to Rs. 100 lacs. It is estimated that the project will start generating revenue immediately from year 1. The Net revenue (after tax) for the next 5 years is Rs. 20 lacs, 30 lacs, 35 lacs, 45 lacs, 48 lacs.

A new loan is available to Vridhi Impex at 9% p.a. interest rate (net of tax). Mr. Joshi has another proposal which gives him a return of 12% p.a. and hence he does not want to invest below this rate. Assist  Mr. Joshi  to evaluate the project  proposal using  NPV  and  IRR.  (Show  all calculations for comparing it with the alternative proposal also). Should he go ahead with the project proposal?     (10 Marks)

2. Parag is evaluating 3 options for investment of his surplus money of Rs. 15,00,000/- for a period of 5 years.

i. Invest it in a Debenture which gives him a return of 12% compounded quarterly.

ii. Invest in a Corporate Deposit at a rate of 9% compounded bi-annually.

iii. Invest it in a Business Proposal which gives him the following returns.

Considering the risk involved, the discounting factor is considered @ 11%.

Year    CF

1          250,000

2          350,000

3          575,000

4          525,000

5          645,000

As his finance advisor which option would you suggest him. Provide reasons.  (10 marks)

3. a) In the following Balance sheet, calculate the Current Ratio and the Acid Test Ratio for both years Mar 2024 and Mar 2023. What do they indicate about the company’s financial position and the movement over the years? (5 Marks)

Tata Motors                

 

Standalone Balance Sheet

 

——————- in Rs. Cr. —————–

 

            Mar 24 Mar. 23

EQUITIES AND LIABILITIES        

SHAREHOLDER’S FUNDS

Equity Share Capital  766.50 766.02

Total Share Capital     766.50 766.02

Reserves and Surplus 29,374.83        21,701.37

Total Reserves and Surplus    29,374.83        21,701.37

Money Received Against Share Warrants              

Total Shareholders Funds       30,141.33        22,467.39

            1.72     2.46

NON-CURRENT LIABILITIES       

Long Term Borrowings          5,235.67          10,445.70

Deferred Tax Liabilities [Net]            49.78   51.16

Other Long Term Liabilities  1,392.16          1,411.78

Long Term Provisions            1,936.92          1,588.75

Total Non-Current Liabilities 8,614.53          13,497.39

CURRENT LIABILITIES     

Short Term Borrowings          8,535.37          8,426.74

Trade Payables           8,826.46          7,162.60

Other Current Liabilities        8,830.41          9,805.30

Short Term Provisions           1,133.92          408.89

Total Current Liabilities        27,326.16        25,803.53

Total Capital And Liabilities 66,083.74        61,770.77

ASSETS         

NON-CURRENT ASSETS   

Tangible Assets          11,990.26        12,129.14

Intangible Assets        2,353.79          2,413.18

Capital Work-In-Progress      645.03 575.65

Intangible Assets Under Development           588.92 509.30

Fixed Assets   15,578.00        15,627.27

Non-Current Investments       30,315.57        29,181.62

Deferred Tax Assets [Net]     1,558.65          1,477.26

Long Term Loans And Advances      101.89 114.40

Other Non-Current Assets      3,321.96          3,870.27

Total Non-Current Assets      50,876.07        50,270.82

CURRENT ASSETS 

Current Investments   1,993.50          3,142.96

Inventories      3,470.38          3,027.90

Trade Receivables      2,765.16          2,307.72

Cash And Cash Equivalents   5,150.96          1,414.65

Short Term Loans and Advances       132.19 132.29

Other Current Assets  1,695.48          1,474.43

Total Current Assets   15,207.67        11,499.95

Total Assets    66,083.74        61,770.77

b) Monica has a debenture of Face value Rs. 100/- @ 8.5%. Calculate its current yield if: (5 Marks)

i) Market Price is Rs. 98.90

ii) Market Price is Rs. 95.20 iii) Market Price is Rs. 105

What inference can you draw from this about the relation between Market price and yield?

 

Cost and management accounting

Q1. The stock in hand of material as on 1st September was 500 units at Rs. 10 per unit. The following purchases and issues were subsequently made. Prepare the Stores Ledger Account showing how the value of the issues would be recorded under FIFO method.  (10 Marks)

 

Purchases

6th Sept. 100 units at Rs. 11

20th Sept. 700 units at Rs. 12

27th Sept. 400 units at Rs. 13

13th Oct. 1,000 units at Rs. 14

20th Oct. 500 units at Rs. 15

17th Nov. 400 units at Rs. 16

 

Issues

9th Sept. 500 units

22nd Sept. 500 units

30th Sept. 500 units

15th Oct. 500 units

22nd Oct. 500 units

11th Nov. 500 units

Q2. Discuss the role of management accounting in shaping strategic decisions within an organization. Provide examples of how management accounting practices can influence long-term planning and sustainability.  (10 Marks)

Q3 (a) Calculate Break-Even Point from the following particulars. Fixed Cost Rs.1,50,000

Variable cost per unit Rs.10

Selling price per unit Rs.15  (5 Marks)

Q3 (b) Analyze the differences between standard costing and budgetary control. How do these tools help in managing operational performance within an organization?    (5 Marks)

 

Project management

1. What is a project charter? Develop a project charter for a Metro-rail project (e.g. Bhubaneswar Metro-rail project) and discuss the typical elements of the charter. (10 Marks)

2. India is set to launch its own space station, named “Bharatiya Antriksh Station,” by 2035, as announced by Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State for Science and Technology. Construct a WBS (Work break-down structure) for the project. (10 Marks)

3. Budget 2024 Highlights: Road infrastructure project Bharatmala Pariyojana gets a boost Budget 2024: Budget 2024 raised the allocation for the Road Ministry marginally to ₹2.78 lakh crore from Rs 2.7 lakh crore. Out of the outlay, ₹1.68 lakh crore is earmarked for investment in NHAI for the development of national highway corridors under Bharatmala Pariyojana.

The Bharatmala Pariyojana is an ambitious infrastructure project of the government. It was launched in 2015. The programme aims to transform the country’s road infrastructure by building a robust, safe and efficient network of highways to connect major industrial zones, state centres and remote areas across the country. The programme is being executed under the administrative control of the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH). The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation, and the roads wing of the ministry are the implementing agencies for Bharatmala Pariyojana.

To give a boost to the road infrastructure, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman had increased the allocation to the Road Transport Ministry by 36% to ₹2.7 lakh crore in Union  Budget  2023  from  ₹1.99  lakh  crore  in  FY  2022-23.Budget  2024  raised  the allocation for the Road Ministry marginally to ₹2.78 lakh crore. Out of the outlay, ₹1.68 lakh crore is earmarked for investment in NHAI for the development of national highway corridors under Bharatmala Pariyojana.

 

a) Explain the various characteristics/features of Bharatmala Pariyojana. (5 Marks)

b) Discuss in brief the different activities to be executed during the project life cycle of the Bharatmala Pariyojana project. (5 Marks)

 

Sales management

1. A sales manager notices that one of their top-performing sales personnel, Ravi, has been consistently missing targets over the last three months. Upon discussion, Ravi shares that he feels undervalued and mentions that newer team members receive more recognition. As a sales manager, what steps would you take to motivate Ravi and ensure he regains his enthusiasm and performance levels? (10 Marks)

2. Prepare a Sales Plan for a brand of electronic goods focusing in rural market (10 Marks)

3. Read the case & answer the questions based on the case:

XYZ Pvt. Ltd., a growing FMCG company, is planning to expand its market presence in Tier- 2 and Tier-3 cities. The sales manager, Mr. Mehta, has been asked to prepare the sales budget for the upcoming financial year. He reviews historical sales data, market demand, and competitor strategies to set a target of a 20% increase in sales. He allocates funds for promotional campaigns, salesforce incentives, and distribution enhancements. However, during the budget review meeting, the finance team recommends a 10% cut, citing cost constraints. This forces Mr. Mehta to reconsider the allocation of funds without compromising the growth target.

Questions:

a) How should Mr. Mehta prioritize his budget allocation to balance cost efficiency with achieving the sales growth target? (5 Marks)

b) What alternative strategies can Mr. Mehta consider to optimize resources and still meet the expansion goals? (5 Marks)

 

Consumer behaviour

Q1. Critically evaluate how buying a home theatre system would be different from buying a shampoo of your choice using the Tri-component model. Use any existing brand of the above-mentioned product categories to explain the same. (10 Marks)

Q2. Following a public vote in which more than 37,000 people had their say, “Brainrot” has been declared that the Oxford Word of the Year for 2024. Brainrot is a term is used for low- quality online content that people binge-watch or scroll through for long periods and how this influences their product and brand choices. It is linked to social media trends, viral topics and trending topics. Please analyse how this phenomenon influences consumer buying behaviour.    (10 Marks)

Q3. Apply the concept of Just Noticeable Difference [JND] to the following

Appointing brand ambassadors    Asian  Paints  and  Kansai  Nerolac  Paints  are planning to appoint a brand ambassador. Do you recommend that both paint companies should have a brand ambassador on the basis of JND. If yes please suggest two names of brand ambassadors – one for Asian Paints and the other for Kansai Nerolac with reasons thereof. (5 Marks)

Q3(a): Appointing Brand Ambassadors for Asian Paints and Kansai Nerolac Paints

Cadbury’s Perk and Nestle’s Kitkat are 2 competing chocolates. Both want to run a promotion for Perk and Kitkat. Perk has announced a promotion on their 30 numbers x 13.8 gms bar pack size – get 10 bars more at the same price [price of 30 Bars of Perk at Rs. 150, after promotion they are giving 40 Bars at Rs. 150]. Nestle has a pack of 10 Kitkat’s of 13.8 gms each. What promotion would you recommend for Nestle’s Kitkat. Please justify the same based on JND (5 Marks)

 

Digital marketing

1. GlowX, a newly launched skincare brand, aims to develop an effective digital marketing strategy to increase brand awareness, engage with potential customers, and drive sales. The brand plans to utilize social media advertising, regularly update its blog and social media pages with valuable content, and encourage customers to share reviews and testimonials online. Using these details, discuss how the POEM Framework (Paid, Owned, Earned Media) can be applied to GlowX’s strategy. (10 Marks)

2. A leading software-as-a-service (SaaS) company, Tech Sphere, specializes in offering cloud-based solutions for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The company has recently observed a decline in the quality of inbound leads through traditional marketing efforts like email and webinars. To address this, Tech Sphere wants to focus more on leveraging social media platforms to improve lead generation, establish thought leadership, and build relationships with decision-makers. Discuss how Tech Sphere can effectively use Social Media Marketing to achieve its goals. You should discuss what all social media platforms the company can use and the rationale for the same, considering its B2B marketing (discuss at least 3). Also, discuss in detail the social media marketing strategy for each of the platforms identified. (10 Marks)

3. Smart Wear, a leading brand in wearable technology, is planning to launch a new line of fitness trackers. To drive sales and build customer relationships, the company wants to leverage a strategic email marketing campaign focusing on product launches, post-purchase engagement, and customer retention. The team also wants to integrate Search Engine Marketing (SEM) alongside their email strategy to maximize visibility and conversions.

a) Design an effective email marketing strategy to launch their new fitness trackers, ensuring that the content is valuable, engaging, and aligned with customer needs at each stage of the customer journey (product launch, post-purchase engagement, and retention). (5 Marks)

Develop an SEM strategy that complements their email marketing efforts, focusing on increasing website traffic, targeting the right audience, and optimizing conversions for the new fitness trackers. (5 Marks)

 

Organisational Theory, Structure and Design

1. For a developing economy like India, encouraging the start-up culture is essential. In this scenario, evaluate the different necessary features of organisation – a large scale company vs a start-up. Add suitable examples. (10 Marks)

2. Kinetics mobile is losing market share to its competitors India. Analyse using the 7-S Framework of McKinsey to identify potential changes in the strategy of the firm to secure its market position. Evaluate various internally focussed organisational aspects that needs attention. Give suitable examples. (10 Marks)

3. Ananya, the Managing Director of Summer Vibes clothing company wants to introduce a new work culture for enhancing Organisational Effectiveness. In this context, answer the following with examples:

a) Evaluate various  organisational  parameters  for  enhancing  a  clothing  company’s effectiveness.   (5 Marks)

b) Analyze the theory on the Goal Approach along with its pros and cons. (5 Marks)

 

Marketing of financial services

Q1.  How  does  the  strategic  allocation  of  assets  contribute  to  the  overall  effectiveness  of Financial Planning, and what are the key considerations and benefits that individuals or organizations should keep in mind when implementing an asset allocation strategy? How come this Asset Allocation Strategy involves understanding the importance of diversification, risk management, and aligning asset with long-term financial goals? Explain the pedagogics from Financial Planner Perspective.  (10 Marks)

Q2. How do Indian commercial banks employ innovative marketing strategies to promote their financial  services,  and  what  impact  does  this  have on  consumer  behavior  and  the  broader banking industry? This includes understanding the role of digital marketing, customer segmentation, and product differentiation in enhancing the visibility and adoption of financial products. How these marketing efforts shape industry trends and consumer preferences. Ultimately, explain the paradigm highlights the critical role of marketing in the success of commercial banks in India.       (10 Marks)

Q3A. In what ways is the Indian government enhancing community welfare through the marketing of financial services at post offices and other public venues, and how does this initiative impact the broader financial inclusion landscape? This involves examining the role of government-sponsored programs and initiatives in promoting financial literacy and access to banking services.   (5 Marks)

Q3B. How the Digital Marketing plays an influential Role in Customer Relationship Management? Elaborate any 4 to 5 Distinct features of CRM Digital Marketing Cruciality / Importance for Banks & Other Institutions Financial Services Marketing.  (5 Marks)

 

Taxation-direct and indirect

1. Mr. Narayan, a businessman, purchased a house property on 1.5.1978 for Rs. 1,12,000. He incurred the following expenses for making some additions and alterations to the house property:

Construction cost of first floor, incurred in 1984-85, for Rs. 2,95,000. Construction cost of second floor, incurred in 2003-04, for Rs. 8,05,000. Renovation expenses of the building, incurred in 2013-14, for Rs. 5,11,000. The fair market value of the property as on 1.4.2001 is Rs. 9,40,000. This house property was sold by Mr. Narayan on 11.8.2018 for Rs.77,00,000  after incurring expenses of Rs. 40,000 on the transfer. The capital gains on such transfer are calculated as follows:(10 Marks)

Financial Year (FY)   Cost Inflation Index (CII)

2001-02           100

2003-04           105

2013-14           200

2018-19           280

2019-20           289

2020-21           301

2. Section 28 is the charging section of profits and gains of business or profession. You are required to list and explain those 10 items of income which are chargeable to tax under the head ‘Profits and Gains of Business or Profession’ (10 Marks)

3. a) When an organization  decides to retrench certain workforce, the workmen are entitled to retrenchment  compensation  at the  time  of their  retrenchment.  You are required    to   explain    the   taxability    of   such    Retrenchment    Compensation. (5 Marks)

b) Different rates of TDS are prescribed for different items depending on the type of payment. You are required to list down 5 of these types of payment along with the relevant section and the rate of TDS.  (5 Marks)

 

Strategic cost management

1. New Era Corp., a mid-sized manufacturing company, has been struggling with inefficiencies in its budget allocations. For years, the company relied on incremental budgeting, where previous year’s expenses were carried forward with minor adjustments. Over time, this led to certain departments hoarding funds they didn’t necessarily need, while other critical areas remained underfunded. Facing increasing competition and pressure to improve profitability, the management decided to overhaul their budgeting process. They proposed shifting to a zero based budgeting (ZBB) system, where every expense would have to be justified from scratch for each new budgeting cycle. The finance team welcomed the opportunity to streamline spending but raised concerns about the time and resources required to implement ZBB. Department heads expressed mixed reactions—some saw it as a chance to highlight their real needs, while others worried about the effort involved in preparing detailed justifications for every cost. After a six-month trial run with ZBB, the company observed some significant changes. Now, the management must decide whether to fully adopt ZBB across the organization or return to the traditional budgeting approach. What are the advantages and disadvantages of adopting a zero-based budgeting system as observed in this case?

2. Mindset Ltd., a manufacturing company producing Product A and Product B, is facing challenges in accurately allocating overhead costs using the traditional costing system. To address this, the management has decided to implement an Activity-Based Costing (ABC) system to ensure a fair allocation of costs and better decision-making. The following data is available:

Overhead Costs and Activity Drivers:

Activity

Total Overhead Cost

Activity Driver

Total Activity

Machine Setup

₹50,000

Number of setups

100 setups

Quality Inspection

₹60,000

Number of inspections

120 inspections

Material Handling

₹40,000

Number of

material movements

80 movements

 

Activity Usage by Products:

Activity Driver

Product A

Product B

Number of setups

60 setups

40 setups

Number of inspections

80 inspections

40 inspections

Number of material movements

50 movements

30 movements

 

Allocate overhead costs to Product A and Product B using activity-based costing. Calculate the overhead cost per unit for each product if units produced of product A are 1000 and that of product B are 500. What insights do the results share?

3. Delta Ltd. is a mid-sized manufacturing company specializing in high-quality kitchen appliances. Their flagship product, the ‘SmartCook Pro’, is gaining popularity, but the management team is concerned about fluctuating profit margins due to rising raw material costs and competitive pricing pressures. To address these challenges, DEF Ltd. wants to use Cost-Volume-Profit (CVP) analysis to better understand the relationship between their costs, production volume, and profit. They need insights into the breakeven point, the sales volume required to meet a target profit, and how changes in variable costs or selling prices might impact their financial performance. The company has set a selling price of ₹2,000 per unit, incurs variable costs of ₹1,200 per unit, and has total fixed costs of ₹8,00,000. The management also plans to introduce a discount strategy, reducing the selling price to ₹1,800 per unit to boost sales, and they wish to evaluate its impact on profitability. Using CVP analysis, they aim to make informed decisions on production levels and pricing strategies.

a) Based on the current pricing strategy, calculate the breakeven point in units. What is break-even analysis and what does these number of units signify?

b) If Delta Ltd. reduces the selling price to ₹1,800 per unit to achieve a target profit of ₹4,00,000, calculate the number of units they need to sell?

 

International marketing

Q1. What are your views on Foreign Direct Investments FDI and FII and how do both impact our country?  (10 Marks)

Q2. Many countries today are promoting “Go Local “to promote Local consumption. What is your view on nations promoting local production and how does it impact globalization?  (10 Marks)

Q3. Read the following case study carefully and then answer the questions that follow: Your firm manufactures Incense sticks also called Agarbatti, in India and desires to market them globally. Although there is competition, you see that Mauritius has a huge potential and plan to expand your company’s retail operations in Mauritius.

a) Discuss the market entry strategy that you would recommend to launch your company products in Mauritius. (5 Marks)

b) How does global pricing policies help in launch of products. In your view which pricing policies do you think would be appropriate while launching of Incense sticks in Mauritius? (5 Marks)

 

Customer relationship management

1. Acquiring new clients and retain existing ones, is one of the key reasons why organizations need to focus on their CRM activities. How is CRM expected to help your business acquire and retain customers? (10 marks)

2. Your  company  manufactures  industrial  exhaust  fans  and  water  coolers.  The industry is hypercompetitive with too many players competing for the same set of customers. You are launching a product, which will change the industry. In this context how will you persuade your existing customers to buy the new product?  (10 marks)

3. Organisations that implement CRM are often dissatisfied and failure rates are very high.” In context of the statement:

a) What are the primary causes of dissatisfaction in CRM implementations and how do you mitigate them? (5 marks)

b) What are the factors that you should consider to limit the failures in CRM projects? (5 marks)

 

Marketing strategy

Q1. Imagine you are the marketing manager for a new luxury smartphone brand entering the Indian market. The company aims to create a unique position in a highly competitive market. Discuss the strategic mapping and key decisions you would consider while formulating the marketing strategy for this product. Explain how external environmental factors, such as economic conditions and technological advancements, would influence your strategy. (10 Marks)

Q2. You are tasked with developing a marketing strategy for a new premium skincare brand in India that targets middle-to-high-income urban women aged 25-45. Describe how you would segment the market for this product and select the target market. Discuss how you would position the brand using the concepts of customer value and competitive advantage.    (10 Marks)

Q3. M/s XYZ is a startup that has recently launched an innovative, eco-friendly, reusable water bottle in the Indian market. The bottle is crafted from high-quality stainless steel, ensuring  durability  and  safety.  Its  primary  objective  is  to  promote  sustainability  by reducing single-use plastic waste. The product is competitively priced at INR 500 and is available in a variety of colors (red, blue, green, black) and sizes (500ml, 750ml, 1L). The company has identified its target market as environmentally conscious urban consumers aged 18-45, residing in metro cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Hyderabad. Their market research indicates a growing interest in sustainable products but also reveals competition from established brands offering similar reusable bottles priced between INR 400–700. M/s XYZ has allocated a modest marketing budget and plans to use a mix of digital platforms, such as Instagram and YouTube, and online marketplaces, like Amazon and Flipkart, for its product promotion and distribution. The company is looking for innovative strategies to differentiate its products and create a strong market presence.

a) Using Ansoff’s Product-Market Growth Matrix, develop a comprehensive marketing strategy for M/s XYZ, addressing potential opportunities for market penetration, market development, product development, and diversification. (5 Marks)

b) Suggest an appropriate pricing strategy for the product, considering factors like competitors’ pricing, consumer willingness to pay, and the brand’s sustainability message. Justify your recommendations with a rationale. (5 Marks)

 

Capital Market and Portfolio Management

Q1. Mr. A is looking to invest some of his savings for the future. He has two options: stocks and bonds. He decides to visit his friend Mr. B, who is an experienced investor, to ask for some advice. Mr. B said “Think of stocks like owning a piece of a company. When you buy stocks, you’re actually buying a small share of that company. But bonds are like loans you give to companies or governments. When you buy a bond, you’re lending them money, and they promise to pay you back with interest over a set period. From investment adviser’s point of view how will you differentiate stock & bond?  (10 Marks)

Q2. John, a new investor, is interested in putting his money into mutual funds but is worried about the risk. Suppose you are investing in mutual fund from several years, as a friend explain the different types of mutual funds that can help John in diversifying risk. (10 Marks)

Q3a. Alpha takes in to an account the volatility of an asset & compares its risk adjusted performance to an already established benchmark index. If portfolio return is 30%, the risk-free rate is 8%, beta is 1.1, and the benchmark index return is 20% calculate alpha. (5 Marks)

b) Arbitrage pricing theory helps investors to determine whether an asset is undervalued or overvalued. On the basis of this information investors can decide invest or not to invest. Arbitrage Pricing Theory is based on some assumption describe few of them. (5 Marks)

 

Brand management

Q1. The strategic brand management process has four main steps. Please explain and relate one of the steps namely ‘Identify and establish brand positioning and values’. You may relate this specific step to the brand ‘MAGGI’ (from Nestle).  (10 Marks)

Q2. Gillette Limited, world famous for its razors also has numerous products based on brand extension principles. They have products like Gillette shaving gel, foams, after- shave lotion and more. List and relate how Gillette Limited would have evaluated brand extension opportunities available to them. List at least any three brand extension opportunities identification steps.   (10 Marks)

Q3. McDonalds is a world-famous fast-food restaurant chain. They also have over 500 numbers of outlets in India. McDonald’s has several outlets opened through a franchisee route. McDonald’s also does innovative sales promotion ideas. By understanding certain aspects of McDonald’s story, one can understand brand management better. Answer the following questions and support MBA learning students to understand branding better by reading your notes.

A) Identify any  two  brand  elements  of  McDonald’s  in  India  and  provide  your understanding of the criteria based on which various brand elements are decided by McDonalds. Your answer must related to McDonalds brand elements only.         (5 Marks)

B) Identify and relate any two innovative sales promotion ideas used by McDonald’s in India and explain what may have been the purpose of doing it. (5 Marks)

 

Operations and supply chain strategies

1. PQR, a multinational retail company, recently launched new private-label products that have been well-received by customers. While customer demand is growing due to the diverse product mix, the company’s operational performance has not kept pace, resulting in inefficiencies in meeting this demand. Analyze the potential supply chain challenges contributing to this performance gap. Propose specific supply chain strategies to improve efficiency, meet growing demand, and enhance overall performance. (10 Marks)

2. Last month, you launched a new electronics business. As part of your growth strategy, you plan to expand by opening additional branches both within your city and in other locations. To further boost revenue, you are considering entering international markets. However, the dynamic marketplace presents tough competition from both online and offline competitors. Analyze and suggest a different level of strategies that you will implement in the firm that can improve overall business profit. (10 Marks)

3. A toy company has been operating successfully in the Indian market for several years, with multiple branches across cities. The company is now considering establishing its own manufacturing unit, aligning with the government’s push for domestic manufacturing under the ‘Make in India’ initiative.

a) Identify and explain the critical competitive dimensions the company must focus on to enhance market share and achieve excellence in its supply chain operations. (5 Marks)

b) Given the management’s uncertainty regarding the production process, recommend the most suitable production method (e.g., job, batch, mass, or continuous production) to improve efficiency, and justify your choice based on the company’s business goals. (5 Marks)

 

Enterprise resource planning

1. Your organization is implementing an ERP system for the first time. However, the finance team is resistant to adopting the new system due to concerns about complexity. Discuss why it is important to provide training to the team members of Finance department. Discuss the benefits of ERP System and explain phased implementation of ERP. (10 Marks)

2)  AcademiGO  is  an  emerging  training  company  with  few  modules  of  HR  and Finance for its operations of providing training for on-job training requirements of various companies. The specified functionalities only cater to a particular requirement with limited integration of functionalities. Most of the processes are complex and time consuming. They decided to reorganize its system and processes to improve its efficiency by adding more modules to ERP system with modules for all operations of the AcademiGO. Idea is to make it automated system and integrated, flexible, and scalable. Discuss which other modules can be added to existing ERP system for AcademiGO with what functionalities and what could be the challenges in ERP implementation. (10 Marks)

3)  ITThink is an IT Company with the motive of providing solutions to different Organisations by catering to their specific product related requirements. They have decided to implement ERP system in their organization to integrate the various business processes and to enhance the efficiency of the organization. Considering the above scenario, discuss the following:

a) What could be the major reasons for ITThink to switch to ERP system? (5 Marks)

b) Discuss the need of vendor selection for ERP implementation. (5 Marks)

 

Performance management system

1. “Studio” is a premium brand dealing with men and women’s apparel, shoes, bags and other accessories. The brand was launched in India one year ago and will now enter the Middle East countries. The brand is available at exclusive Studio Stores and also malls and also online shopping.   Prepare a Balanced Scorecard for the Department Head at “Studio” covering one goal each in Financial, Customer, Business Process and Learning & Growth quadrant. (10 Marks)

2. “Talent Star” is a recruitment agency and provides candidates to companies across different industries in India. The company is 5 years old and has 100 recruitment executives who source candidates and help meet the hiring and talent acquisition requirements of industries across India. Prepare an appraisal form using the graphic rating scale for the position of “Recruitment Executive” in “Talent Star”.      (10 Marks)

3. “Health India” is a 2-year-old company based at Mumbai which focuses on organic foods and wellness products. The company has 250 employees and is looking to grow with entry to USA and Canada markets. They have recently introduced Performance Appraisal process in the company. You are the HR Manager and need to set goals for your team.

Using the concept of SMART Goals, you need to prepare 2 goals each for the following:

Training Manager. (5 Marks)

Hiring Manager. (5 Marks)

 

Procurement management

Q.1 ABC Healthcare is a mid-sized pharmaceutical company that specializes in producing over-the-counter (OTC) medications. With steady growth and diversification into new product lines, the demand for various raw materials, packaging supplies, and third-party services has significantly increased. However, the procurement system at ABC Healthcare has not adapted to these changes, resulting in sourcing delays, inconsistent purchasing practices, and potential cost inefficiencies. Identify and describe the various requisition types that ABC Healthcare may encounter in its procurement operations, emphasizing the importance of requisition categorization for effective procurement planning and execution. Additionally,  propose a structured  process  for  issuing  an  RFx  (Request  for Proposal, Request for Quotation, or Request for Information) to ensure optimal supplier selection and contract negotiation for ABC Healthcare.  (10 Marks)

Q.2 SolarBright Ltd. is a global manufacturer and distributor of solar energy equipment, sourcing components from international suppliers and delivering products to clients worldwide. Despite its success in the renewable energy market, the company faces significant challenges in managing its transportation and logistics. Issues such as inconsistent shipment traceability, high transportation costs, and discrepancies in documentation have resulted in delayed deliveries and operational inefficiencies. Explain the concept of INCO terms and their importance in global supply chain management by analyzing how selecting the appropriate  INCO  terms can  influence SolarBright Ltd.’s transportation   costs   and   responsibilities.   Additionally,   evaluate  the  potential   risks associated with inaccurate or incomplete shipping documentation and propose strategies or technologies to improve shipment visibility and traceability.   (10 Marks)

Q.3 GreenHarvest AgriTech, a rapidly expanding agritech company specializing in sustainable farming solutions, is encountering challenges in sourcing reliable suppliers for eco-friendly materials, streamlining supplier onboarding, and evaluating supplier performance. These difficulties threaten the company’s ability to maintain operational efficiency and meet growing market demands.

a) Discuss the significance of conducting spend analysis for GreenHarvest AgriTech to uncover cost-saving opportunities and explore strategic sourcing options by outlining a step-by-step approach to improving the supplier selection process. (5 Marks)

b) Discuss how understanding Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) can aid GreenHarvest AgriTech in making strategic decisions regarding supplier and product selection. (5 marks)

 

Total quality management

Q1. Discuss on the relevance of the statement ”Quality always comes at a cost’ in context of the concept of the Cost of Quality (CoQ), explaining in details the four components of CoQ. Illustrate the concept with references from any industry/ organisational instance of your choice. (10 marks)

Q2.  Discuss  the  relevance  of  Supplier  relationship  and  explain  the  various  approaches  for supplier  sourcing  and  evaluation  as  applicable  to  any  organisation  targeting  total  quality. Support your answer giving suitable references from the industry. (10 marks)

Q3. Quality Function Deployment (QFD) is a strategic method of comprehending customer`s choices, translating the choices into product features and design the products. The concept is extensively used in both manufacturing as well as service industries.  Assuming any reference of a manufacturing or service industry of your choice, explain the following aspects of QFD.

a) Discuss in brief the process of concept of ‘Quality Function Deployment’ and highlight its benefits. (5 marks)

b) Explain how the concept of Poka yoke be applied to ensure Quality being deployed into products and services. (5 marks)

 

International Business

Q1. A lot of products made in China dominate our markets and have made production unprofitable for Indian manufacturers. What would be your view on allowing the entry of Chinese products in India?   (10 Marks)

Q2. Leading critics of WTO including economists such as Dani Rodrik and Ha Joon Chang have submitted that WTO only serves the interests of MNCs, undermines local development, penalizes poor countries and is causing increase in inequality. Express your view on the above and suggest the changes that in your opinion can bring improvement to the developing countries.    (10 Marks)

Q3. Read the following case study carefully and then answer the questions that follow: French company Jeanne Oliver Perfumes is contemplating to introduce a perfume by the brand  name  SK,  named  after  an  Indian  charismatic  celebrity  Shah  Rukh  Khan.  The perfume is available in two variants, SK Silver for men and SK Gold for Women. The perfumes are packaged in 100ml pump spray bottle. The strategy would be to capture a large number of consumers who are oriented towards film celebrities. Advertising is also planned through television satellite channels and magazines. You are required to analyze the following:

a) In your opinion what pricing strategy you would like to apply during the launch of the product? (5 Marks)

b) Due to low cost of manufacturing in India the French company wishes to export the product from India to other countries. Examine in your view the various type market entry strategies available to the French company and which strategy would you use to market the product? (5 Marks)

 

Compensation and benefits

1. You are an HR Manager of newly established organization i.e. ABC Pvt. Ltd. It is a manufacturing organization of readymade garments. The worth of the job decides the salary structure which will be given to employees recruited for a particular job role. Being the HR Manager, you need to explain various methods which you can use for job evaluation by giving suitable examples. (10 Marks)

2. Ram and Rahul are two individuals working in two different organizations. Ram is paid based on number of units manufactured in a period whereas Rahul receives hike in the current year based on performance in the previous year. Identify the pay systems used by both organizations and explain other pay systems in detail. What is the utility of both pay systems as employed in both the organizations. (10 Marks)

3. Mr. Vardhan wants to design a competitive compensation policy for its sales team.

The sales team since is responsible for the productivity and growth of organization, therefore Mr. Vardhan wants to employ a scientific and rational method to compensate the sales team. Considering above scenario, Answer the following questions.

A) Explain the rationale of designing a sales compensation plan. (5 Marks)

B) What factors are kept in mind by HR Practitioner while designing a Sales compensation plan for Mr. Vardhan. (5 Marks)

 

Industrial Relations & Labour Laws

1. ABC Textiles, a mid-sized manufacturing company, has been facing disputes between its management and workers over issues like wages, working conditions, and overtime policies. The workers’ union has requested a meeting to discuss and resolve these disputes through collective bargaining. The management, however, is hesitant, citing concerns over transparency and control.

As the newly appointed HR Consultant at ABC Textiles, propose a structured framework for resolving disputes between management and workers over wages, working conditions, and overtime policies through collective bargaining. Your response should include: a detailed approach to collective bargaining, key differences between collective bargaining and cooperation, conditions for successful negotiations in the Indian context, and an outline of roles and responsibilities for negotiation teams.    (10 Marks)

2. Priya, a manager at a manufacturing company, informs her employer about her pregnancy and requests maternity leave benefits under the Maternity Benefit Act. However, the employer refuses, citing a lack of clarity on the conditions of payment and claiming that her recent absenteeism disqualifies her. Priya argues that she meets all the conditions stipulated by the Act.

Analyze the provisions of the Maternity Benefit Act concerning conditions of payment, prohibition of employment, and maternity benefits, discuss how the objects of the Act and key definitions apply to Priya’s case, and recommend a course of action for her to assert her rights and ensure compliance by her employer.  (10 Marks)

3a. XYZ Manufacturing employs a significant number of daily-wage workers. Recently, during a compliance audit, it was discovered that certain workers were being paid less than the minimum wage prescribed by the state government. The management claims this was due to a lack of clarity on minimum wage laws.

3b. A worker at ABC Construction suffered a severe injury while operating machinery on-site. The management argues that they are not liable to provide compensation as the worker did not follow safety instructions. However, the worker claims the injury occurred due to faulty equipment provided by the employer. As a legal advisor, evaluate whether the employer is liable under the Workmen’s Compensation Act, 1923, for a worker’s injury caused by machinery on-site, considering the worker’s claim of faulty equipment and the employer’s defense of non-compliance with safety instructions. Additionally, discuss the relevance of the 2009 amendments to the Act in this context.     (5 Marks)

 

Organization culture

1. Understanding Schein’s Model of Organisational Culture

Critically evaluate Edgar Schein’s three levels of organisational culture (artifacts, espoused values, and basic underlying assumptions). How do these levels interact to shape an organisation’s culture? Use examples from organisations to illustrate your answer.  (10 Marks)

2. Application of Hofstede’s Cultural Dimensions in Global Organisations

Examine how Hofstede’s cultural dimensions (such as power distance, individualism vs collectivism, and uncertainty avoidance) influence workplace behaviours and management practices in multinational organisations. Provide examples to highlight the implications of these dimensions on cross-cultural management.  (10 Marks)

3. Global Connect: Cultural Transformation in the Telecom Sector

GlobalConnect, a leading telecom provider in South Asia, has built its reputation on offering reliable network services and innovative customer solutions. However, in recent years, the company has faced significant challenges, including high employee turnover, stagnant market innovation, and declining employee engagement. These issues have been further compounded by the hyper-competitive telecom market, characterised by aggressive pricing strategies, rapid technological advancements, and shifting consumer expectations. Adding to the complexity, the organisation recently experienced a leadership transition, with key talent moving to competitors. Simultaneously, regulatory challenges, including massive default fines, have further strained the company’s resources and strategic focus.

 

In response to these multifaceted challenges, GlobalConnect’s leadership embarked on a cultural transformation journey aimed at revitalising its organisational culture and ensuring long-term growth. The transformation focused on fostering innovation, enhancing employee engagement, and embracing sustainability. Among the initiatives implemented, flexible work policies were introduced  to  improve employee well-being.  By  adopting  hybrid  work models  and  flexible scheduling, the company aimed to reduce burnout and enhance work-life balance, creating a more satisfied and motivated workforce.

 

To reignite creativity and stay ahead of market trends, GlobalConnect established innovation hubs within its major business units. These hubs provided employees with the resources and mentorship needed to propose and develop new telecom solutions, promoting a culture of experimentation and continuous learning. Simultaneously, the company undertook a core value redefinition to align with  current  workforce  expectations  and  industry  needs.  The  revised  values  emphasised collaboration, customer-centric innovation, and a commitment to environmental sustainability, forming the foundation for the company’s strategic and operational decisions.

 

Recognising the pivotal role of leadership, GlobalConnect launched a leadership development programme focused on building emotional intelligence and empathetic management skills. This initiative aimed to equip managers to foster trust, open communication, and team cohesion in an increasingly dynamic and demanding environment. Additionally, the company introduced transparent feedback mechanisms, including regular feedback sessions and a platform for employees to voice their ideas and concerns. This was designed to create a culture of openness and inclusivity, enabling continuous improvement and greater employee alignment with organisational goals. To boost morale and enhance engagement, GlobalConnect implemented a comprehensive recognition and rewards programme. This initiative celebrated individual and team achievements in areas such as innovation, customer satisfaction, and sustainability, reinforcing the value of each employee’s contributions. These efforts were critical in addressing the immediate challenges faced by the organisation while laying the groundwork for a resilient and adaptable organisational culture capable of thriving in South Asia’s dynamic telecom market. Through these strategic initiatives, GlobalConnect sought to mitigate the impact of external pressures  and  internal  disruptions,  turning its  cultural  transformation  into  a cornerstone for sustainable success. The leadership’s ability to navigate these challenges while maintaining focus on innovation, engagement, and compliance will determine the company’s ability to reclaim its competitive edge and drive future growth in the telecom industry.

3.a. Considering GlobalConnect’s comprehensive initiatives to revitalise its organisational culture amidst challenges such as high employee turnover, reduced innovation, declining engagement, leadership transitions, and regulatory pressures, propose a set of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) that can effectively measure the success of these cultural interventions. How would these KPIs reflect improvements in employee well-being, innovation, and organisational adaptability? (5 Marks)

3.b. How should the proposed KPIs for GlobalConnect’s cultural transformation be aligned with its long-term strategic objectives to address critical issues such as sustaining organisational growth, nurturing employee engagement, improving innovation, and ensuring compliance in a highly regulated and competitive telecom market? Illustrate how these KPIs can balance immediate operational needs with enduring organisational priorities.  (5 Marks)

 

Manpower Planning, Recruitment and Selection

1. Establishing a solid manpower planning process ensures steady supply of talented professionals for essential profiles. As a Manpower Planning Strategist, analyse the various steps involved in this process which would help an IT firm hire and place the best talents from the industry. Add relevant examples. (10 Marks)

2. Labour stocktaking helps HR managers work proactively during the hiring season to lineup relevant employees as per the organisational requirements.  In this context, evaluate the different benefits of labour stocktaking in a manufacturing firm. Add suitable examples.     (10 Marks)

3. The CEO of Sky High Aviation is worried about employee attrition. You have been hired as the HR Consultant for the firm. In this context, answer the following:

a) Evaluate various qualitative methods for demand forecasting and justify which one do you think is the best. Add examples (5 Marks)

b) Analyze  the  different  statistical  methods  under  quantitative  techniques  for manpower forecasting. Justify the best method according to you. Add examples (5 Marks)

 

Service Operations Management

Q1. List and explain in detail the various Service dimensions through organisations are analysed and judged for Quality by customers? Elaborate your answer with a reference of any Professional educational institute of your choice.    (10 Marks)

Q2. Discuss the concept of the ‘Service Design; highlighting in detail the different approaches through which organizations can implement ‘Service Design’? Support your details with a reference to a Fast-food chain or a restaurant setup (you can choose any reference of your own choice)   (10  Marks)

Q3. The Healthcare sector has become a very critical service sector domain in recent times, especially post Covid scenario. Hence it is very obvious for Healthcare Institutes to plan their operations in several ways to provide the best services to their target customers. Explain the following aspects of these organisations in context of the following areas as given below.

a) Discuss the different elements that need to be considered in a Service Framework of the setup. (5 Marks)

b) Discuss the concept of a Service Design (Blueprinting) in context of healthcare setups for their service operations. (5 Marks)

 

IT Project Management

1. Explain the need for effective Project Management in IT, detailing how project management helps in meeting deadlines, staying within budget, and ensuring the delivery of high-quality outcomes. (10 Marks)

2. Explain the concept of the Project Charter. What are its key components, and what purpose does it serve in the initiation phase of the project? How does the Project Charter formally authorize the project and outline the project’s objectives, scope, and stakeholders? (10 Marks)

3. You have been assigned as the Project Manager for an IT project to develop a customized software solution for a client. The project involves a tight timeline, a significant budget, and high expectations from the client regarding both the scope and quality of deliverables. You are in the planning phase of the project and need to ensure that the project’s scope, budget, schedule, and risk management plans are carefully planned and documented to meet the client’s expectations and avoid potential project failures. Address the following aspects:

a) Detail how you will define the project scope. What are the key steps involved in defining the scope, and how will you ensure that the project’s deliverables are clearly identified and agreed upon by all stakeholders? What methods and tools might you use to ensure that the scope is well defined? (5 Marks)

b) Explain the process you would follow to develop the project schedule. How would you define the timeline for project activities, and what tools and techniques would you use to create a realistic and achievable schedule? (5 Marks)

 

IT Infrastructure Management

1. You have been tasked with leading a training session for your IT team on enterprise-level virtualization platforms. To ensure the team understands the architecture and implementation details, how would you describe the core components of an enterprise-level virtualization platform and their roles? Also, what key implementation characteristics of these components would you highlight to ensure successful deployment and management? (10 Marks)

2. Imagine you are part of a team managing the IT infrastructure for a large e-commerce platform. During a crucial sale event, your team identifies several risks. Your manager asks you to prepare a comprehensive risk management strategy by classifying the risks to determine the appropriate response strategy for each along with the tools or methods to mitigate the risks effectively. (10 Marks)

3. NovaTech Solutions has secured a project to manage the IT infrastructure for Zenith Dynamics, a fast-growing global fintech company. The success of the project heavily depends on a well-structured IT design and a thorough understanding of client requirements. You are responsible for orienting your team to ensure effective execution of this critical project.

a) What are the core components that lay the foundation for designing a robust IT infrastructure in an organization? (5 Marks)

b) Outline the process of requirement gathering and analysis that you would recommend your team adopt to ensure all client needs are effectively captured and addressed. (5 Marks)

 

Emerging Technologies: IoT, Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality

1. The government of a developing nation has initiated a smart city project aimed at improving urban living through integrated technologies. These include smart traffic systems, waste management solutions, connected public utilities, and advanced surveillance networks. While the project has garnered praise for its potential to enhance efficiency and sustainability, data privacy and cybersecurity concerns have emerged. The centralized nature of data collection and real-time monitoring exposes the system to risks such as unauthorized access, cyberattacks, and misuse of personal information. Citizens are wary of how their data is collected, stored, and used, questioning whether sufficient safeguards are in place. What strategies can governments adopt to address the security and privacy challenges in smart cities while ensuring efficient service delivery and public trust? Discuss the role of robust data governance frameworks, advanced cybersecurity measures, and citizen awareness programs in mitigating these risks. (10 Marks)

2. A leading healthcare provider has begun integrating Augmented Reality (AR) into its operations to enhance patient care and improve medical training. AR applications include virtual overlays during surgeries to visualize internal organs, real-time guidance for minimally invasive procedures, and interactive 3D anatomical models for patient education. Additionally, AR is used in physical therapy by gamifying exercises to boost patient engagement and recovery rates. Despite these advancements, challenges such  as high implementation costs, technical complexity, and limited user training have emerged. There are also concerns about the reliability of AR systems in critical medical scenarios and their acceptance among healthcare professionals and patients. How can healthcare organizations effectively integrate AR into their practices to maximize its potential benefits while addressing challenges such as cost, reliability, and user adoption? Discuss the role of investment in technology, training, and stakeholder collaboration in achieving successful AR implementation in healthcare.    (10 Marks)

3. A prestigious educational institution has introduced Virtual Reality (VR) technology in its classrooms to enhance the learning experience. VR applications are used in subjects such as history, where students can immerse themselves in historical events, and in medical education, where future doctors can simulate surgeries and complex medical procedures. The institution has seen initial positive reactions from students, citing VR’s engaging and interactive nature. However, challenges such as the high cost of equipment, the need for technical support, and the risk of students becoming too absorbed in the virtual world have emerged.

a) How can educational institutions balance the benefits of VR technology with the challenges of cost and technical support? (5 Marks). Balancing the Benefits of VR Technology with the Challenges of Cost and Technical Support

b) What measures should be taken to ensure that VR is used effectively for educational purposes without overwhelming students or detracting from traditional learning methods? (5 Marks)

 

Supply Chain Management

1. You are the Chief Operations Officer of a growing e-commerce company struggling with high operational costs and delivery delays. To address these challenges, your company is considering outsourcing logistics and customer support services. Identify and analyze the factors you would consider before selecting an outsourcing partner. Design a strategy to monitor the performance of the outsourced processes and ensure quality control and also discussed factors to be considered before selecting an outsourcing partner. Propose measures to manage potential risks, such as data security and loss of brand identity, while working with the outsourcing partner. (10 Marks)

2. Imagine you are a supply chain manager for a popular consumer electronics brand. The company recently launched a new product, and initial demand spikes have caused significant disruptions in the supply chain. The manufacturing team has overproduced, leading to excess inventory, while the retailers are now reporting declining sales. Identify the factors that might have contributed to the bullwhip effect in this scenario. Propose strategies to stabilize the supply chain and prevent similar disruptions in the future. (10 Marks)

3. You are the supply chain manager for a global apparel brand that experiences significant variability in customer demand due to seasonal trends. The company currently follows a push strategy, manufacturing large volumes of products based on forecasted demand. However, unsold inventory during off-seasons and stockouts during peak seasons have led to inefficiencies and lost sales.

a) Analyze the challenges associated with the current push-based approach in this scenario. (5 Marks)

b) Propose how a hybrid push-pull strategy could be implemented to balance inventory levels and meet customer demand effectively. (5 Marks)

 

Business: Ethics, Governance & Risk

Note: This assignment is application based, you have to apply what you have learnt in this subject into real life scenario. You will find most of the information through internet based research and the remaining from your common sense. None of the answers appear directly in the textbook chapters but are based on the content in the chapters, directly or indirectly.

Q1. Prepare and submit an Executive Summary of the Code of Conduct of a listed company selected from the BSE database of ‘Top 100 companies by market capitalization’. Ensure that you include all the key parameters covered in the code of conduct policy document. You must mention the name of the company in the introduction. Conclude the summary by explaining in your own words how and why the Code of Conduct is an important ethical guideline/tool for all the stakeholders of the company.  DO NOT copy paste    (10 Marks)

Q2. Prepare a concise report in your own words showcasing how the listed company you have selected (same as in Q1) is respecting and promoting the wellbeing of all employees including those in its value chain with a special focus on diversity & inclusion related issues and their management/mitigation. Scan the complete Business Responsibility & Sustainability Report 2023-24 to compile and collate information required for your report. Remember to mention the name of the selected company in introduction. DO NOT copy paste.  (10 Marks)

Q3. You have just completed learning Business: Ethics, Corporate Governance & Risk in a structured format for the first time.

a) What do you think is the fundamental role of ethics in business and why do you think it is important for managers, professionals and leaders to understand business ethics? (5 Marks)

b) Share five practical key learnings that you have acquired through the study of this subject that you think will help you better understand your role and thus contribute to your responsibilities more meaningfully, irrespective of the type of your business, department and designation. (5 Marks)

 

Research Methodology

Q1. India’s jewellery market is predominantly split into two sectors: organized and unorganized retail. The organized sector is led by major players like Titan (Tanishq), Kalyan Jewellers, Malabar Gold & Diamonds, and PC Jeweller. These brands offer standardized products, assured quality, branded offerings, and a reliable shopping experience. The unorganized sector, on the other hand, includes small, family-owned jewellers, local goldsmiths, and regional jewellery shops that often offer custom-made or traditional jewellery at competitive prices. Explain the research process to study consumer behaviour for organized versus unorganized jewellery retail in India. What is the key determining factors influencing consumer behaviour, and how would you conduct a comparative analysis between the two market segments?    (10 Marks)

Q2. Explain the experimental design used in studying consumer behaviour at Shoppers Stop. Discuss the concepts of internal and external validity, hypothesis formation, and the application of different experimental designs. How can simulations and ethical considerations be applied in experimental research for a retail company like Shoppers Stop?  (10 Marks)

Q3. In  the  digital  age,  apparel  companies  in  India  face  intense  competition  and changing consumer preferences. With the growing influence of e-commerce platforms, mobile apps, and social media, building and maintaining brand loyalty has become more challenging. As customers increasingly engage with brands through digital channels, apparel companies must adapt by offering personalized experiences, seamless omni-channel strategies, and consistent value. The problem lies in identifying the most effective strategies that apparel companies can use to foster brand loyalty in a digital-first environment.

a) Which research method can be applicable for this research. What are the objectives of the study? (5 Marks)

b) Develop a questionnaire for this study. (5 Marks)

 

International Finance

1. When the International Monetary Fund (IMF) conducts a comprehensive analysis of a specific economy, why does the Balance of Payments (BOP) often emerge as a crucial component? How does the paradigm shift when viewed from the perspective of the Current Account, and what role does the Capital Account play in this context? Explain the significance of these accounts in understanding the overall economic health and stability of the country. (10 Marks)

2. In the context of international finance, how does the concept of Interest Rate Parity (IRP) influence the exchange rates between two currencies? What are the key mechanisms through which IRP affects the economic interactions and financial stability of two interconnected economies? How does this parity help in maintaining equilibrium in foreign exchange markets? Explain the implications of IRP on the exchange rate dynamics between these economies. (10 Marks)

3a. In the realm of international trade, what significance does an Export Earners’ Foreign Currency (EEFC) account hold for global traders? How does the existence of an EEFC account facilitate the retention of foreign exchange earnings without converting them into the domestic currency? What are the key benefits and implications of this account for exporters in  managing  their  foreign  exchange  reserves? Explain the  role of EEFC accounts in enhancing trade efficiency and financial flexibility. (5  Marks)

b. In the context of foreign exchange management, how does Translation Risk emerge as a critical component of forex risks? What are the underlying factors that contribute to Translation Risk, and how does it impact financial statements and asset values? How do fluctuations in exchange rates exacerbate this risk for multinational corporations? Explain the significance of Translation Risk in the broader spectrum of forex risk management. (5 Marks)

 

Marketing research

1. You are the Marketing Director of Gharonda Constructions in Delhi NCR. Your company wants to conduct market research to assess customer needs and preferences. Prepare a research plan – Mentioning the Target Group, Priority Markets, and Research Hypotheses in the plan along with the Success Criteria for your research. (10 Marks)

2. Define the Target Group for Aishwarya Homes, a Property Developer in Chennai. Analyze the major infrastructure initiatives in Chennai (the Chennai Metro Rail, the Chennai-Bengaluru Industrial Corridor, Elevated Corridors, etc.) and their impact on the Chennai Real Estate market. What are the Opportunities for the Company? What are the Risks and how can they mitigate against these?   (10 Marks)

3. You’re the CMO for an Indian Automotive Major. Your company is planning the Pan- India launch of a new Product Family of Electric Two-Wheelers targeted at the entire family. As a first step, you’ve decided to conduct Market Research to help focus your MarketingPlan.

a) As part of your Market Research, describe your preferred sampling technique(s) and why you’ve chosen it(these). (5 Marks)

b) Describe (at least) Five (5) Secondary Sources which you can leverage and as well, the reasons for selecting them. (5 Marks)

 

Services marketing

1. There are various salons in your city and in the future, you intend to open a salon. The problem is that all of them offer similar kinds of services. In such a case, you’ll need to make sure you differentiate your service offerings. Analyse and present the approach or the steps which should help you in creating differentiation for your processes, people and physical evidence. (10 Marks)

2. You play the guitar. Your friends have been suggesting, that to start with your music classes. You also intend to offer other music and hobby classes by inviting experts. Considering that you plan to start your guitar classes, explain how would you apply the 7Ps used in Service Marketing in the given scenario which should also help you in an effective strategy formulation. (10 Marks)

3. You have started a home cooked meal service. However, reaching out to people is a big challenge considering your limited marketing budget.

a) How will you build a service brand with your limited budgets? (5 Marks)

b) How will attract your first set of customers? (5 Marks)

 

World Class Operations

1. There is a common thread which connects Leading Manufacturers in diverse sectors such as Machinery (Caterpillar, Komatsu, JCB), Semiconductors (Intel, Motorola, Nvidia), Appliances (Samsung, Phillips, Whirlpool), etc., – They are all World Class Manufacturers (WCMs).

All WCMs are highly reputed for their unflinching commitment to Quality.   These manufacturers have understood that Quality is about identifying “what is important to Customers” and delivering this to their customers.  Explain how these (and other) WCMs use frameworks such as QFD and HOQ to help embed Quality into every aspect of the Product Creation – From Concept to Manufacturing.  (10 Marks)

2. Vijay Vasanthan has just joined as the GM – Maintenance at Melanathuru Tools, a leading Manufacturer of CNC Machines. As he reviews the company’s Equipment Maintenance history, he is concerned that there is no coherent Maintenance Strategy – i.e., except for some cases (e.g., critical machines) where the company uses Preventive Maintenance. For all other machines & equipment, they’re fixed when they break down. In order to streamline the Maintenance Department, Vijay is keen to adopt a Predictive Maintenance Strategy. In this context, …

Describe the Reactive Maintenance & Preventive Maintenance approaches, along with their respective Pros & Cons. Explain the Predictive Maintenance approach and why Vijay would want to adopt it to overcome the problems of Reactive Maintenance & Preventive Maintenance. (10 Marks)

3a. Quality Awards are not only about rewarding organizations but also about recognizing the importance of quality in the business. These awards are often used as a tool to raise awareness among both Employees and as well, Customers about the importance of quality. They also help to improve Customer Satisfaction and Employee Morale. Discuss the difference between Regional and International Awards.   (5 Marks)

b. With reference to Quality Awards, what are the Deming Criteria (any 4) for Performance Excellence in assessing the award? (5 Marks)

 

International HR Practices

Q1) XYZ Multinational Corporation is an IT company headquartered in the United States with operations across 15 countries. The company often sends its employees on international assignments for 2-3 years. Recently, several employees who returned to their home country after completing their assignments reported challenges in readjusting to the home office environment. Complaints included a lack of career progression, feeling undervalued, and difficulty in applying the skills acquired abroad. This led to an increase in employee dissatisfaction, turnover, and loss of organizational knowledge. The HR team is now tasked with designing a Repatriation Programme to address these issues and improve the reintegration experience for returning employees.

Questions:

What are the key challenges XYZ Corporation faces in managing the repatriation process, and how can it design an effective repatriation programme to ensure smooth reintegration, retention of repatriated employees, and alignment with organizational goals, including methods for evaluating its effectiveness?   (10 Marks)

Q2) XYZ Corporation, a multinational company headquartered in the United States, operates in 15 countries, employing a culturally diverse workforce. The company recently implemented a unified performance management system across all locations. However, regional managers have raised concerns about the system’s applicability due to cultural differences in performance expectations, feedback mechanisms, and evaluation criteria. As part of its performance cycle, XYZ Corporation has established the following phases: goal-setting, performance monitoring, feedback and coaching, and annual appraisals. In its first year of implementation, the following issues were observed:

Employees in some regions were hesitant to set ambitious goals due to fear of penalties for underperformance.

Feedback sessions were  either too  formal  or lacked  clarity  in  communication, leading to misinterpretations.

The appraisal process did not account for local performance metrics, which are significant for evaluating employee contributions.

Question: Based on the case scenario, analyze the challenges XYZ Corporation faces in implementing an international performance management system. Propose a revised performance cycle that addresses these challenges, ensuring cultural inclusivity and alignment with global objectives. Your answer should include:

Challenges identified in the case

Key modifications to the performance cycle phase

Expected benefits of the revised system (10 Marks)

Q3 (A) ABC Tech Solutions, a mid-sized IT company, is facing challenges with its newly implemented software tools. Employees are struggling to adapt, which has caused delays in project timelines. The management decides to conduct a series of training programs to address this issue. However, feedback from employees indicates that the training sessions are too theoretical, lacking practical relevance to their day-to-day tasks.

Question:

As a training consultant, analyze the issue faced by ABC Tech Solutions and propose two practical  solutions  to  make  the  training  programs  more  effective.  Justify  how  these solutions would enhance the learning outcomes.  (5 Marks)

Q3 (B) GlobalConnect, a multinational corporation, is sending a team of employees from its headquarters in Canada to set up a new office in Japan. The team has limited exposure to Japanese business practices and work culture. To prepare them for the assignment, GlobalConnect is considering a pre-departure training program.

Question:

Suggest two components that should be included in the pre-departure training program to ensure the team’s success in Japan. Explain how these components would help the employees adapt effectively to the new environment.   (5 Marks)

 

Strategic HRM

1. As the assistant to the HR manager at a banking firm, one of your responsibilities is to assist managers in preparing for candidate interviews. During a discussion with a manager, you both agree on the importance of transforming the selection process into a strategic and structured approach. The goal is to focus not just on eliminating unsuitable candidates but also on identifying and selecting the most qualified individual from the applicant pool. Together, you and the manager decide to outline a well-defined selection process to ensure optimal hiring decisions. What key steps should be included in the selection process to ensure it is fair, objective, and aligned with the organization’s goals? (10 Marks)

2. As the HR head of a small IT organization, one of your top web developers requests a one- on-one meeting and shares that she feels there is no career growth for her in the organization. She reveals her intention to leave as soon as she secures another job. Recognizing her value and the critical role she plays in the team, you realize the organization cannot afford to lose her. Additionally, you suspect that other employees may share similar sentiments, prompting the need for immediate action. How would you design and implement effective retention strategies to address these concerns and foster long-term employee engagement in your IT firm? (10 Marks)

3. As a Senior HR Executive with extensive experience in employee management, you have just concluded a meeting with Mr. Rajesh, one of your six team members, who shared some troubling information. He feels that he is being bullied by a colleague, Mr. Ravi, and is seeking your guidance on how to handle the situation.

Mr. Rajesh explained that Mr. Ravi greets everyone else in the office with a cheerful “good morning” but pointedly ignores him. He also mentioned that Mr. Ravi organized a farewell lunch for a departing employee last week but excluded Mr. Rajesh from the event. Additionally, Mr. Rajesh revealed that Mr. Ravi has been making derogatory remarks about him to other colleagues. For example, after a chance meeting at a grocery store, Mr. Ravi shared details about the medications in Mr. Rajesh’s shopping cart, including those for a private medical condition, with the entire office. Mr. Rajesh also showed you an email sent by Mr. Ravi to the department, blaming Mr. Rajesh for the loss of one of his key clients. This has led other colleagues to distance themselves from Mr. Rajesh on  collaborative projects. Clearly  upset, Mr. Rajesh left  your office seeking reassurance and resolution. You recognize the need to address the situation promptly.

Questions:

How would you manage this situation to involve employees and foster positive relations between Mr. Rajesh and Mr. Ravi? (5 Marks)

Managing the Situation to Foster Positive Relations Between Mr. Rajesh and Mr. Ravi

What proactive industrial relations policies should the organization implement to prevent and address such issues effectively? (5 Marks)

 

Entrepreneurship and Venture Capital Management

1. You are an entrepreneur planning to set up a boutique clothing store in Pune with an estimated capital requirement of ₹25 lakhs. Prepare a loan proposal to present to a bank. (10 Marks)

2. Draft an executive summary for a business plan of a startup offering eco-friendly packaging solutions. (10 Marks)

3. Exiting the Venture is an integral part of the entrepreneurial journey. It’s important for startup to have a clear exit strategy.

a) Critically analyze the importance of having a well-defined exit strategy for startups. Discuss how such strategies influence decision-making and long-term goals. Use real Indian startup examples, such as Flipkart, BigBasket, or Snapdeal, to support your answer. (5 Marks)

b) Evaluate two exit strategies commonly used by startups in India. Compare these strategies using real scenarios, such as Flipkart’s acquisition by Walmart and Zomato’s IPO (5 Marks)

 

Employee Development & Talent Management

1. Rajesh, a seasoned executive at a textile firm, faces a performance slump. His manager, concerned,  explores  various  employee  development  programs.  The manager then decides to use on-the-job training for Rajesh. The manager must decide the best approach to re-energize Rajesh, considering his experience and potential. Analyze the suitability of different employee development programs for Rajesh’s situation, considering his experience and the need to revitalize his performance.  (10 Marks)

2. Software company in Bangalore is looking to fill a senior management position. The company is considering internal talent acquisition techniques to identify suitable candidates from its existing workforce. Evaluate the suitability of different internal talent acquisition techniques for filling a senior management position in the software company context. (10 Marks)

3. A young engineer, Priya, joined a tech startup in Bangalore after graduating. Initially enthusiastic, she faced challenges and learned from early mistakes. After 5 years, feeling stagnant, she pursued further education to enhance her skills and secure a leadership role. Please answer the questions below in context of the case given.

a) How do the Exploration and Establishment stages contribute to an individual’s career development? (5 Marks)

b) What challenges might an individual face during the Maintenance stage, and how can they overcome these challenges to avoid stagnation? (5 Marks)

 

Lean six sigma

1. Imagine you are working in a large e-commerce fulfillment center. Identify a process within the fulfillment operation that requires improvement and outline a broad approach to apply the DMAIC methodology for enhancing this process. Additionally, as the project leader of a Six Sigma project, draft a set of guidelines that your team should follow to ensure collaboration, avoid conflicts, and maintain project efficiency. (10 Marks)

2. Discuss the application of DMAIC methodology and its associated tools for improving business processes within a healthcare equipment manufacturing company. Identify five process audits relevant to healthcare equipment manufacturing and provide a detailed explanation of at least two of these audits. (10 Marks)

3. Assume you are a Six Sigma project leader in a large hotel chain.

a) Develop a schedule outlining all activities involved from the moment a guest checks in at the reception desk to when they enter and occupy their assigned room. (5 Marks)

b) Create a process map detailing the steps involved in the guest check-in process, starting at registration and ending when the guest settles into their room. (5 Marks)

 

New Product Development and Managing Innovation

1. An important aspect of launching new products is defining a ‘new product strategy’ before delving into idea generation. Imagine that you are part of the Product Strategy team for a global electric vehicle manufacturer. The company plans to introduce an affordable, entry-level electric car for the Southeast Asian market. Using the Ansoff Matrix and the BCG Matrix, analyze the strategy for this product launch. (10 Marks)

2. Can you explain  the  various  stages  of  a  product/technology  lifecycle?  Use appropriate examples of brands/products (from industries of your choice) to explain different aspects of the product/technology lifecycle stages. (10 Marks)

3. a) Explain  the  4  different  types  of  innovation  (based  technology  and  market)? Provide a real-life example for each.   (5 Marks)

b) Why should companies do competitor analysis & what are the benefits of it? Explain Porter’s 5 forces model with an example from an industry of your choice. (5 Marks)

 

International Banking & Foreign Exchange Management

1. Suppose you are an intern at a leading financial company. A new client needs information on the workings of the foreign exchange market. Prepare a summary of the different types of players in the foreign exchange market and the nature of their transactions in the market. (10 marks)

2. Mr. Mudit has recently shifted to the US to work and stay there for the long run. He would still like to hold a bank account in India. What options does he have in this regard? Discuss in detail the features of different accounts he may open and maintain. (10 marks)

3. a) Mr. Manoj Joshi is a diamond merchant in Surat. He is planning to expand his business overseas and in turn will need to export finished diamond jewelry while importing rough cut diamonds. Explain to him how he can utilize the services of a bank to help in his transactions.  (5 marks)

b) Sumit is your cousin who is studying in the MBA program. He is applying to various international organizations as part of his job search. Explain to him about the World Bank and its work across the countries.     (5 marks)

 

International Logistics & Supply Chain Management

1. A leading Indian brand of packed spices (both in whole form as well as grind form) is already having a vast pan-India distribution network. They are planning its international expansion by way of exports. It has identified the USA as the first foreign market to start with. Explain the factors the manufacturer should consider while formulating its supply chain strategy for exporting to the USA market and suggest an appropriate strategy for the same. (10 marks)

2. “THE COLLECTIBLES” brands follow a direct-to-consumer (D2C) model for sourcing & selling accessories like watches, belts, purses, wallets, etc. for men & women. With competition from similar other D2C companies, “THE COLLECTIBLES” is looking to differentiate itself from the others based on its delivery experience. It is also looking at a superior delivery experience to provide it a source of competitive advantage. Explain, with reasons, the choice between in-house & outsourcing of logistics for “THE COLLECTIBLES” to achieve its twin objectives. (10 marks)

3. An international brand is interested in setting up its first India operations by importing & selling its product range comprising of internationally renowned models of premium sports shoes through both the distributor as well as retail channel.

a) Discuss the various requirements & the procedure to be followed for importing the products in the Indian market. (5 marks)

b) Discuss the requirements of warehousing in India for the distributor channel for the sports shoe brand? Would these be any different for the retail channel? Suggest the suitable type (or types) of warehouse. (5 marks)

 

Managing Business Process Outsourcing

1. As the project manager at Pioneer Inc. which is a Insurance company in USA, you are tasked with identifying an off-shore BPO provider to handle the company’s back office operations. What critical checks would you perform during the due diligence process, and how would you  gather  the  necessary  information  to  ensure  an  informed  decision?  (10 Marks)

2. TechNova Solutions, a mid-sized IT firm, is planning to expand its operations globally. To support this growth, the company aims to develop a capability sourcing strategy that ensures optimal allocation of resources, cost efficiency, and access to specialized skills. The leadership team is debating between in-house development, outsourcing, and forming strategic partnerships.

As a consultant, analyze the key factors TechNova should consider while designing its capability sourcing strategy. Provide recommendations based on their goal of sustainable growth and competitiveness.      (10 Marks)

3. Background:

XYZ  Retail,  a leading  e-commerce company  headquartered  in  the United States,  has revolutionized online shopping with its customer-centric approach, competitive pricing, and wide range of product offerings. Over the past five years, the company has expanded its operations to several countries across North America, Europe, and Asia, resulting in exponential growth in revenue and customer base. However, this rapid expansion has led to increasing operational complexities, higher overhead costs, and challenges in managing non-core functions such as customer support, payroll processing, and data entry.

 

The Challenge:

To focus on its core business strategies and improve efficiency, XYZ Retail has decided to outsource these non-core processes to a Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) provider. The goal  is  to  achieve  cost  optimization,  streamline  operations,  and  enhance  customer satisfaction while ensuring compliance with international regulations and data security standards.

 

The Options:

After extensive market research, XYZ Retail shortlisted three potential BPO providers:

 

Provider A:

o A global leader in BPO services with over 20 years of industry experience.

o Proven expertise in managing large-scale operations for Fortune 500 clients.

o High focus on quality assurance, data security, and compliance.

o Service costs are 30% higher than competitors due to premium offerings.

 

 Provider B:

o A mid-sized BPO provider with 10 years of experience.

o Strong reputation for customer service and quick adaptability to client needs.

o Competitive pricing with flexible service packages.

o Limited scalability and fewer global delivery centers.

 

Provider C:

O A new entrant in the BPO market, leveraging cutting-edge technologies such as AI and automation.

o Aggressive pricing strategy, with costs nearly 40% lower than Provider A.

o Potential for innovation-driven efficiency gains.

 

O Limited   track   record   and   concerns   over   operational   reliability   and compliance.

 

The Decision Process:

XYZ Retail’s leadership team is divided on the selection of the BPO partner. Some members advocate for Provider A, citing its reliability and proven expertise, while others prefer the cost-effectiveness and customer-centric approach of Provider B. A few are intrigued by Provider C’s innovative solutions but remain cautious about the risks of partnering with a new player in the market.

 

To make an informed decision, the leadership team has outlined the following evaluation criteria:

Cost Efficiency: Balancing cost savings with service quality.

Operational Excellence: Assessing the provider’s ability to handle high volumes

while maintaining accuracy.

 

Technology Integration: Compatibility with XYZ Retail’s existing systems and the ability to innovate.

Scalability: Capacity to support XYZ Retail’s growth trajectory.

Cultural Fit: Alignment with the company’s values and customer-first philosophy.

Risk Management: Data security, compliance, and operational reliability.

 

Your Task:

As the project manager for this initiative, you are tasked with evaluating the shortlisted providers and recommending the best fit for XYZ Retail. The decision must align with the company’s strategic goals and address both immediate and long-term needs.

 

3a. Evaluate the potential risks of choosing each Provider A, B & C, and propose strategies to mitigate them     (5 Marks)

3b. Discuss the role of cultural fit and customer focus in selecting a BPO partner for a company like XYZ Retail.     (5 Marks)

 

Advanced Supply Chain Management

Q1. Frito-Lay has over three dozen brands of snacks and chips, 15 of which sell more than $100 million annually each, and 7 of which sell over $1 billion each. Its brands include Fritos, Lay’s, Doritos, Sun Chips, Cheetos, Tostitos, Flat Earth, and Ruffles. Frito-Lay relies on effective AGGREGATE PLANNING to match fluctuating multi- billion-dollar demand to capacity in its 36 North American plants. Planning for the intermediate term (3 to 18 months) is the heart of aggregate planning.

a) Explain the two (2) Generic Aggregate Planning Strategies and the Pros & Cons of each of these strategies.

b) Explain the key steps in Aggregate Capacity Planning. (10 Marks)

Q2. Aeolus Wind Energy, an international wind turbine manufacturer is facing ongoing challenges with timely supply of crucial components for its production, causing frequent disruptions. Despite extensive internal efforts to address the issue, production delays and cost escalations keep occurring due to last-minute rescheduling and procurement. The lack of delivery reliability is leading to dissatisfied customers and contractual penalties, significantly impacting the company. Willem van Hoff, the COO has undertaken a major review and revamp of the company’s Global Supply Chain. Discuss the factors that the COO needs to consider while redesigning the company’s global supply chain network.       (10 Marks)

Q.3. Clothes Horse Fashions specializes in the manufacture and sale of ready-made clothing, primarily focusing on designer dresses and sportswear. With a global network of sales agents responsible for their respective geographic regions, the company is experiencing explosive growth. However, the company is currently facing intense pressure to continually enhance its supply chain performance in order to maintain its competitive edge. To address this challenge, Jack Wilcox the COO is now keen to restructure their supply chain to optimize its operations and is trying to decide between implementing VMI or CPRF. While David Rakich, the SVP of Operations is in favor of adopting CPRF, the CIO, Ann Rosenthal, is leaning towards adopting VMI.

a) What is VMI? What arguments can Ann use to make the case for VMI and against CPRF? (5 Marks)

b) What s CPRF? What arguments can David use to make the case for CPRF and against VMI. (5 Marks)

 

 

GET BEST QUALITY SOLVED ASSIGNMENTS

VISIT WWW.SMUSOLVEDASSIGNMENTS.COM

Or Mail us at solvemyassignments@gmail.com

YOU MAY CALL US ON - 7506193173

WHATSAPP NUMBER- 9967480770

 

NMIMS SOLVED ASSIGNMENTS

NMIMS ASSIGNMENTS

NMIMS MBA ASSIGNMENTS

NMIMS ASSIGNMENTS

NMIMS APRIL 2025 ASSIGNMENTS

NMIMS APRIL 2025 PGDBM SOLVED ASSIGNMENTS

NMIMS MBA SOLVED ASSIGNMENTS

NMIMS MBA PROJECT REPORT

NMIMS PROJECTS

NMIMS PGDBM ASSIGNMENTS

NMIMS APRIL 2025 SOLVED ASSIGNMENTS

NGASCE SOLVED ASSIGNMENTS 2025

NMIMS PGDBM SEMESTR 1 SOLVED ASSIGNMENTS

NMIMS UNIQUE ASSIGNMENTS

NMIMS CUSTOMIZED ASSIGNMENTS

NMIMS READY TO UPLOAD ASSIGNMENTS

NMIMS ASSIGNMENTS SOLVED MBA