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PGDM-BM in Production Operations And Decision Sciences at XLRI – Xavier School of Management
East Singhbhum, Jharkhand
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About the Specialization
What is Production, Operations and Decision Sciences at XLRI – Xavier School of Management East Singhbhum?
This Production, Operations and Decision Sciences (PODS) program at XLRI – Xavier School of Management focuses on equipping future managers with advanced analytical and managerial skills to optimize complex business operations. Given India''''s burgeoning manufacturing, e-commerce, and services sectors, this specialization is critical for driving efficiency, innovation, and strategic decision-making in a rapidly evolving economic landscape. It integrates quantitative techniques with practical management principles.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for engineering graduates, science graduates, or individuals with a strong quantitative aptitude seeking to build careers in core operational roles. It also suits working professionals from manufacturing, supply chain, or IT sectors looking to enhance their strategic decision-making capabilities and transition into leadership roles. Aspiring consultants and business analysts who wish to specialize in operational excellence would also find this program highly beneficial.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to secure roles such as Operations Manager, Supply Chain Consultant, Logistics Head, Business Analyst, or Project Manager within leading Indian and multinational corporations. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 18-25 LPA, with significant growth potential up to INR 50 LPA+ for experienced professionals. The curriculum prepares students for global certifications like APICS, PMP, and Six Sigma, enhancing their professional value in the Indian job market.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Strengthen Quantitative Foundations- (Trimester 1-3)
Dedicate significant effort to mastering Business Statistics, Quantitative Techniques, and Operations Management. Form study groups, utilize online resources like Coursera/edX for advanced topics in statistics or data analysis, and practice problem-solving rigorously.
Tools & Resources
RStudio, Python (Pandas, NumPy), Excel Solver, Textbooks (e.g., Heizer & Render, Ken Black)
Career Connection
Builds essential analytical skills for decision-making roles, crucial for understanding and optimizing business processes.
Develop Structured Communication- (Trimester 1-3)
Actively participate in oral and written communication courses. Practice presenting complex quantitative findings clearly and concisely. Seek feedback on case study analyses and reports. Engage in college debate clubs or Toastmasters-style groups.
Tools & Resources
Grammarly, Presentation Software (PowerPoint/Keynote), Peer Review Sessions
Career Connection
Effective communication of analytical insights is paramount for consulting, managerial, and leadership roles in operations.
Explore Industry Applications Early- (Trimester 2-3)
Attend guest lectures by industry veterans, company presentations, and workshops related to operations and supply chain management. Read business newspapers and industry journals to understand real-world challenges and emerging trends in Indian manufacturing and services.
Tools & Resources
The Economic Times, Business Standard, Harvard Business Review, Industry-specific Blogs
Career Connection
Helps in identifying areas of interest for future specialization and internships, and provides context for theoretical learning.
Intermediate Stage
Strategic Elective Selection & Deep Dive- (Trimester 4-5)
Carefully select PODS electives that align with career aspirations (e.g., Supply Chain Analytics, Project Management). Form dedicated study groups for advanced topics, work on mini-projects, and engage with faculty for deeper insights into research areas.
Tools & Resources
SAP SCM, Tableau, Power BI, Simulation Software (Arena/AnyLogic), Academic Papers, Industry Reports
Career Connection
Builds a specialized skillset that directly enhances employability in niche operations and supply chain roles.
Pursue Relevant Internships- (Summer break after Trimester 3, and throughout Trimester 4-5)
Actively seek and participate in summer internships in operations, supply chain, or consulting roles within Indian or MNC companies. Focus on gaining hands-on experience in process improvement, data analysis, or project execution.
Tools & Resources
XLRI Placement Cell, LinkedIn, Company Career Portals, Alumni Network
Career Connection
Provides practical exposure, builds industry contacts, and often leads to Pre-Placement Offers (PPOs), significantly aiding final placements.
Network with Industry Professionals- (Trimester 4-5)
Attend industry conferences, seminars, and alumni networking events. Connect with professionals in operations, supply chain, and consulting roles on platforms like LinkedIn. Seek mentorship opportunities to understand career paths and industry expectations in India.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Professional Associations (e.g., APICS, IIBLP India chapters), XLRI Alumni Directory
Career Connection
Opens doors to hidden job opportunities, provides insights into industry trends, and builds a valuable professional support system.
Advanced Stage
Refine Placement Strategy & Interview Preparation- (Trimester 6)
Focus on tailoring resumes and cover letters for operations-specific roles. Practice case interviews, behavioral questions, and technical operations/supply chain questions relevant to Indian companies. Participate in mock interviews with faculty and alumni.
Tools & Resources
XLRI Career Services, Case Interview Prep Books, Industry-specific Interview Guides, Peer Groups
Career Connection
Maximizes chances of securing desired roles and optimizing placement outcomes in top-tier companies.
Engage in a Capstone Project/Dissertation- (Trimester 5-6)
Undertake a challenging research project or dissertation in a specialized PODS area, ideally with industry collaboration. This demonstrates in-depth knowledge and problem-solving abilities to potential employers.
Tools & Resources
Academic Research Databases, Statistical Software, Industry Connections, Faculty Guidance
Career Connection
Showcases expertise and practical application, providing a strong talking point during interviews and enhancing credibility for specialized roles.
Cultivate Leadership & Mentorship Skills- (Trimester 5-6)
Take on leadership roles in student clubs (e.g., Operations Club, Consulting Club), mentor junior students, and lead group projects. Actively seek opportunities to develop negotiation, team management, and strategic thinking skills, which are crucial for future leadership positions in operations within Indian firms.
Tools & Resources
Student Leadership Programs, XLRI''''s various clubs and committees, Self-assessment Tools
Career Connection
Prepares individuals for managerial progression, effective team leadership, and driving change within an organization''''s operational framework.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Candidates must hold a recognized Bachelor''''s Degree of minimum three years duration in any discipline from a recognized University, or equivalent. Those completing their final examination by June 10, 2024, may also apply. All applicants must appear for XAT 2024.
Duration: 2 years (6 trimesters)
Credits: Credits not specified
Assessment: Assessment pattern not specified
