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PGDM-GM 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 specialization within the PGDM (GM) program at XLRI focuses on optimizing organizational processes, managing complex supply chains, and leveraging data-driven decision-making. In the context of India''''s rapidly expanding manufacturing, e-commerce, and service sectors, this specialization equips future leaders with the analytical and strategic tools to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and drive innovation, meeting the critical demand for operations experts across various industries.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for experienced professionals with a strong analytical bent, seeking to deepen their expertise in operations, supply chain, and quantitative decision sciences. It attracts engineers, IT professionals, and mid-career managers looking to transition into senior roles in operations, consulting, or project management. Individuals aiming to lead large-scale process improvement initiatives or manage complex logistics networks within Indian or multinational corporations will find this specialization particularly rewarding.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue India-specific career paths such as Head of Operations, Supply Chain Manager, Senior Consultant in Operations, or Business Analyst. Entry to experienced salary ranges in India can typically vary from INR 15-30 LPA for early-career roles to upwards of INR 40-70+ LPA for seasoned professionals. The program fosters growth trajectories into strategic leadership roles, aligning with industry demand for professionals capable of navigating India''''s dynamic economic landscape.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build a Strong Quantitative Foundation- (Trimester 1-2)
Dedicate extra effort to mastering core quantitative subjects like Business Statistics, Managerial Economics, and Operations Management. These form the bedrock for advanced topics in Production, Operations, and Decision Sciences. Actively participate in problem-solving sessions and seek clarification on foundational concepts.
Tools & Resources
Textbooks on Quantitative Techniques, Excel for data analysis, Online courses on Coursera/edX for statistics refreshers, Peer study groups
Career Connection
A solid quantitative base is crucial for analytical roles, enabling you to interpret data, build models, and make informed operational decisions, a skill highly valued in Indian industries.
Engage with Case Studies and Simulations- (Trimester 1-3)
Actively participate in case discussions related to supply chain, manufacturing, and service operations. Utilize business simulation games or online tools to understand real-world operational challenges and test different strategies in a risk-free environment. Focus on identifying bottlenecks and optimizing processes.
Tools & Resources
Harvard Business Review cases, XLRI''''s internal case study database, Online business simulation platforms (e.g., The Fresh Connection), Group discussions
Career Connection
This practice develops practical problem-solving skills, critical thinking, and the ability to apply theoretical knowledge to complex operational scenarios, directly preparing you for consulting and managerial roles in India.
Network with Industry Professionals Early- (Trimester 2-3)
Attend guest lectures, industry conclaves, and alumni events organized by XLRI. Connect with professionals working in production, operations, and supply chain roles. Understand their career journeys, industry trends, and the skills they value. This helps in identifying potential mentors and internship opportunities.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, XLRI Alumni Network platform, Industry webinars and conferences, Campus recruitment drives
Career Connection
Early networking opens doors to internships and placements, provides market insights, and helps in shaping your career trajectory within the competitive Indian management landscape.
Intermediate Stage
Deep Dive into Specialization Electives- (Trimester 4-5)
Strategically choose electives that align with your specific interests within Production, Operations, and Decision Sciences. Engage deeply with subjects like Advanced Operations Strategy, Project Management, or Logistics Analytics. Aim to complete certifications if available (e.g., PMP, Lean Six Sigma Green Belt).
Tools & Resources
Course materials for chosen electives, PMI PMBOK Guide, ASQ resources for quality management, Industry-recognized certification bodies
Career Connection
Specialized knowledge and certifications make you a highly sought-after candidate for focused roles in operations, project management, and supply chain within Indian companies and MNCs.
Undertake Industry Projects and Internships- (Trimester 4-5 (during breaks and alongside coursework))
Seek out short-term projects or internships focused on operational improvements, supply chain optimization, or data analytics in manufacturing/service sectors. Apply classroom learning to real organizational challenges, collect and analyze data, and propose actionable solutions. Document your contributions meticulously.
Tools & Resources
Company-specific software/ERPs (e.g., SAP, Oracle), Statistical software (R, Python, SAS), Project management tools, Mentors from host organizations
Career Connection
Practical experience through projects and internships provides invaluable exposure to Indian business operations, strengthens your resume, and often leads to pre-placement offers, significantly boosting your employability.
Develop Advanced Analytical and Software Skills- (Throughout Trimester 3-5)
Beyond classroom basics, proactively learn advanced analytical tools relevant to operations and decision sciences. Focus on statistical modeling, simulation software, and data visualization tools. Proficiency in these enhances your problem-solving capabilities and decision-making processes.
Tools & Resources
R/Python for statistical analysis, Arena/AnyLogic for simulation, Tableau/Power BI for data visualization, SQL for database management
Career Connection
These advanced skills are highly demanded in today''''s data-driven Indian industry, especially in roles like operations analyst, supply chain consultant, and business intelligence specialist, commanding higher compensation.
Advanced Stage
Refine Placement Strategy and Interview Skills- (Trimester 5 onwards (leading up to placements))
Tailor your resume and cover letters to highlight your operations and decision sciences expertise, quantitative skills, and project experience. Practice case interviews and technical questions specific to operations, supply chain, and consulting roles. Seek guidance from career services and alumni mentors.
Tools & Resources
XLRI Career Advisory Services, Mock interview platforms, Case interview prep books (e.g., Victor Cheng), Peer practice groups
Career Connection
A targeted and well-prepared placement strategy is vital for securing desirable roles in top-tier companies in India, ensuring your skills are effectively communicated to recruiters.
Undertake a Comprehensive Capstone Project/Dissertation- (Trimester 5)
Engage in a significant capstone project or dissertation that addresses a complex operational or decision-making challenge for a real company. This should integrate all your learning, demonstrate independent research, and provide tangible recommendations or solutions. Focus on Indian market contexts.
Tools & Resources
Academic research databases, Industry reports (e.g., McKinsey, BCG India reports), Advanced statistical software, Faculty guidance
Career Connection
A strong capstone project serves as a compelling portfolio piece, showcasing your ability to conduct in-depth analysis and deliver strategic insights, differentiating you in the Indian job market for senior analytical or consulting roles.
Cultivate Leadership and Communication Skills- (Throughout Trimester 1-5, intensified in later trimesters)
Participate in leadership roles in student clubs, lead project teams, and hone your presentation and negotiation skills. Effective communication is paramount for influencing stakeholders and leading operational changes in diverse Indian organizational settings. Focus on presenting complex analytical insights clearly.
Tools & Resources
Toastmasters International, Public speaking workshops, Role-playing exercises in group projects, Feedback from faculty and peers
Career Connection
Beyond technical expertise, strong leadership and communication skills are critical for career advancement into senior management and leadership positions within Indian operations and supply chain functions.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Bachelor''''s Degree (minimum 3 years) from a recognized university, with minimum 5 years of relevant managerial/supervisory work experience.
Duration: 15 months (5 trimesters)
Credits: Credits not specified
Assessment: Internal: Continuous assessment including quizzes, assignments, class participation, case studies, and projects., External: End-term examinations, often supplemented by project evaluations or presentations.
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GM101 | Managerial Economics | Core | 3 | Demand & Supply Analysis, Production & Cost Theory, Market Structures, Pricing Strategies, Decision Making under Uncertainty |
| GM102 | Financial Accounting | Core | 3 | Accounting Principles, Financial Statements, Ratio Analysis, Cash Flow Statement, Inventory Valuation |
| GM103 | Organizational Behaviour | Core | 3 | Individual Behaviour, Group Dynamics, Leadership Theories, Motivation & Job Satisfaction, Organizational Culture |
| GM104 | Marketing Management | Core | 3 | Marketing Mix (4 Ps), Consumer Behaviour, Market Segmentation, Product Life Cycle, Branding and Pricing |
| GM105 | Business Statistics | Core | 3 | Probability Distributions, Hypothesis Testing, Regression Analysis, Sampling Methods, Data Visualization |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GM201 | Corporate Finance | Core | 3 | Time Value of Money, Capital Budgeting, Cost of Capital, Working Capital Management, Dividend Policy |
| GM202 | Human Resource Management | Core | 3 | HR Planning, Recruitment & Selection, Training & Development, Performance Management, Compensation & Benefits |
| GM203 | Operations Management | Core | 3 | Process Analysis, Inventory Management, Quality Control, Supply Chain Basics, Project Scheduling |
| GM204 | Research Methods for Management | Core | 3 | Research Design, Data Collection, Sampling Techniques, Data Analysis Tools, Report Writing |
| GM205 | Information Systems for Management | Core | 3 | Role of IT in Business, Database Management, Enterprise Systems (ERP), Cyber Security Basics, Emerging Technologies |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GM301 | Strategic Management | Core | 3 | Strategy Formulation, Competitive Advantage, Corporate Governance, Industry Analysis, Global Strategy |
| GM302 | Business Law and Ethics | Core | 3 | Contract Law, Company Law, Intellectual Property, Ethical Decision Making, Corporate Social Responsibility |
| GM303 | Supply Chain Management | Core/Early Elective | 3 | Supply Chain Design, Logistics & Transportation, Inventory Optimization, SCM Technology, Risk Management in SCM |
| GM304 | Business Analytics & Decision Making | Core/Early Elective | 3 | Descriptive Analytics, Predictive Modeling, Prescriptive Analytics, Decision Trees, Optimization Techniques |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PDS401 | Advanced Operations Strategy | Elective | 3 | Strategic Alignment of Operations, Global Operations Management, Capacity & Demand Planning, Technology Adoption in Operations, Operational Performance Measurement |
| PDS402 | Project Management | Elective | 3 | Project Life Cycle, Scope & Time Management, Cost & Quality Control, Risk Management, Project Leadership |
| PDS403 | Quality Management and Lean Thinking | Elective | 3 | Total Quality Management (TQM), Six Sigma Methodologies, Lean Principles & Tools, Process Improvement, Quality Standards (ISO) |
| PDS404 | Decision Models and Risk Analytics | Elective | 3 | Decision Theory, Simulation Modeling (Monte Carlo), Optimization Techniques, Risk Assessment & Mitigation, Heuristic Methods |
| PDS405 | Service Operations Management | Elective | 3 | Service Design & Delivery, Customer Experience Management, Waiting Line Models, Service Quality Measurement, Capacity Management in Services |
| PDS406 | Logistics and Supply Chain Analytics | Elective | 3 | Network Design, Transportation Planning, Warehouse Management, Supply Chain Metrics, Big Data in SCM |
| PDS407 | Forecasting Methods for Business | Elective | 3 | Time Series Analysis, Regression Forecasting, Qualitative Forecasting, Forecast Accuracy Metrics, Demand Planning Integration |
| PDS408 | Revenue Management and Pricing | Elective | 3 | Dynamic Pricing, Yield Management, Capacity Control, Demand Segmentation, Optimization in Pricing |
| PDS409 | Global Operations and Strategy | Elective | 3 | International Operations Design, Cross-Cultural Management, Global Sourcing, Risk in Global Supply Chains, FDI and Joint Ventures |
| PDS501 | Supply Chain Risk and Resilience | Elective | 3 | Supply Chain Disruptions, Risk Identification & Assessment, Resilience Strategies, Business Continuity Planning, Digital Twin for SC Resilience |
| PDS502 | Manufacturing Strategy | Elective | 3 | Competitive Priorities, Process Choice & Design, Facility Location & Layout, Technology & Automation, Sustainability in Manufacturing |
