DHARANA - Bhavan's International Journal of Business

N. S. Viswanath ¹

Affiliations
1 Bhavan-Marshall MBA Programme, Bangalore, IN

Abstract

The book under review is a business travelogue very intimately woven in a sequence of ten chapters. The book is not just Kishore Biyani’s (KB) personality or success story. It is neither another family business growth revealed nor unfolded. KB’s story is of success brought about by a business family supported by internal customers and the society. KB as an adolescent was a rebellion. His ability to question anything which is not amenable to logic and searching for solutions built up the entrepreneur who was ready to take on challenges! Business, time and opportunity waits for none! KB waited to strike at! The story begins with created and excited customers in a queue for picking up products to optimize their baskets in two major cities-Kolkata and Mumbai.

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Basanna Patagundi ¹, N. S. Viswanath ², Swati Patagundi ³

Affiliations
1 Manipal University, BMRC, Bangalore, IN
2 M.P. Birla Institute of Management, Bangalore, IN
3 Dept of Commerce, KLE’s S.Nijalingappa College, Bangalore, IN

Abstract

Information Technology has evolved over a period of time from Electronic Data Processors (EDP) to Cloud based technologies. Software is a critical component in this industry. The core product component in software is the set of instructions in the form of source code. During inception of the industry, programs were available at no cost. In the next era of information technology, programs which were free off cost were sold at a price. The programs were sold in the form of licenses. Proprietary software dominated the industry. The hardware manufacturers, users and organizations had to largely depend on propriety software. In the recent years users are moving towards open source applications. In specific, open source based operating system is being used and preferred by most of the users. Microsoft has considerably lost its market share in operating system products from 94.38%(based on data compiled by Authors) in Jun 2007 to 86.58% in May 2011. One of the main drivers of market share is product acceptance. Product acceptance is largely dependent on product features. This paper makes an attempt to identify critical features of operating system that may result in product acceptance and increase market share.

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Basanna Patagundi ¹, N. S. Viswanath ², Swati Patagundi ³

Affiliations
1 Manipal University, BMRC, Bangalore, IN
2 M.P. Birla Institute of Management, Bangalore, IN
3 Dept of Commerce, KLE's S. Nijalingappa College, Bangalore, IN

Abstract

Business model establishes linkage between strategy planning and implementation. Business models in software industry are unique in many ways. One is uniqueness of value chain of software industry. Secondly, software product users are manufacturers of software for open source based software. The changes in the product are identified & modified by customers themselves under open source software environment. Operating system software belongs to system software category. System software is created and made available to customers in various forms. Operating systems are designed for Desktops/Laptops and Servers. The major players in this industry are Microsoft, Linux and Mac. Under Desktop category, Microsoft (MS) and Mac are the major players. Each of these major players have unique business model. This study attempts to understand and analyze the existing business model and a conceptual business model is proposed using activity based approach for operating system products.

Keywords

Business Model, Operating System, Activity Based Approach, System Software.

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N. S. Viswanath ¹, Basanna S. Patagundi ²

Affiliations
1 M.P. Birla Institute of Management, IN
2 Bharatiya Bhavan, Bangalore 560 001, IN

Abstract

The book under review has undergone a major reformation by its fifth edition published in 2013. Theodore Levitt in his 1990 foreword to the first edition has described this book as of “Immense Detail” written in “The Indian Context” and has opined that it has rightly recognized the need for aligning marketing teaching with the “Stage of development of Markets and Countries”. Even after fifth edition, the book is updated and fits into the classical remarks of Levitt. The book has nine parts divided into 31 chapters covering about 800 pages. The new avatar of the book has made it more attractive followed by richness in content and expansion of the perspectives on marketing in the changing context.

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N. S. Viswanath

Abstract

Accounting is a discipline of maintaining statements concerning inflow and outflow of money in an organization. The art of maintaining accounts is formatted depending upon what the practitioner’s aim at deriving from these statements. Cost accounting is an area where application orientation is made for materials, labour, overheads and the like. The present book under review is written by two celebrated professors in accounting and finance. The book is written in a lucid style which is easily readable by students and practitioners. The concepts and the basic theory of accounting connected with costing have been detailed well. The book concentrates on solutions to problems by application of several methods to the problems of the organization. The formats of the computations made and the final interpretations of the solutions are done in style to the unique way of teaching. At the end of each chapter, problems have been solved to enable students practice and internalize solutions.

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N. S. Viswanath

Abstract

The book under review is an anthology of 50 cases in HRM. There are several cases reported and being used as materials for classroom room discussions. The present book under review appears to be unique on two fronts: first, it is based on the broader philosophy as revealed by Buddha, The Bhagawan. Secondly, each case is associated with cartoons which reflect in symbols the criticality of HR cases. The whole gamuts of HR from ethics to misuse have been succinctly written. The case begins with ethics, later on the source of selection, qualifications, safety, managing accidents, handling deaths, handling women issues, advertisements for selection, sexual harassments and scandals have been discussed. Each case projects a domain of HR. While motivation alone may not lead to better performance, punishments for threats, corruption or any other form of unruly human behaviour may not scuttle performance. Any organization will have pinpricks in dealing with people.

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Basanna S. Patagundi ¹, N. S. Viswanath ²

Affiliations
1 M.P.Birla Institute of Management, IN
2 Bharitiya Vidya Bhavan, Bengaluru-560 001, IN

Abstract

Business model essentially deals with value creation and distribution of product or service. Value creation and distribution of operating system products seems to be a complex set of activities. This could be due to the process of software development process which takes place across borders. This paper makes an attempt to analyses the issues connected with value creation and distribution of operating system software from international trade perspectives. The policies and role of World Trade Organization (WTO) has been discussed in the paper. The research concludes that Information Technology Agreement(ITA) plays a significant role in value creation process for operating system products. Value creation process is expressed through software features. Standardisation of operating system product features are linked with international trade policies due to the global product usage. This also is directly connected with the acceptance of product. Therefore, it is necessary for international trade organisations to have more clarity of the policies related to exchange of system software products.

Keywords

International Trade, Operating System, Software Patenting, Software Licensing & ITA.

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N. S. Viswanath

Abstract

The present book under review deals with cost. This book is specifically written for MBA programme of VTU. This is based on application of marginal principle and methods of costing. Added to this is the control aspects of costing based on principles of management. The book is divided into eight modules in a logical sequence. Each module is dealt for solving problems connected with costing. Interesting aspect of this book is application of marginal principle and linking up cost, volume, and profit relationships. Each chapter has a theoretical foundation followed by relevant & associated problems. The thought flow is written with rigour and life by enumerating implication of each tool in solving practical problems. The best module appears to be cost audit which is in the domain of cost management. The rules, procedures and practices of cost and management audit are written in the Indian context. Cost, control and activity relationships are well brought out accordingly from modules 1 to 4. The module in management reporting appears sketchy. Some standard examples of management relationship on cost audit should have been added. The module 8 presents an interesting reduction, control and target costing. The use of statements in control of quality is highlighted. The application of balanced score card which is frequently used in organizations is enumerated. An example of application of balance score card to industry, cooperative and not for profit organizations (NPOs) may have been attempted. There is a need to expand the last chapter to enable the accountants in the MNC companies to derive the use of this book.

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N. S. Viswanath

Abstract

Imagination is a psychological exercise which will help people grow and make others grow under most stressful circumstances. Here is an anthology of poems by a student of business who is working as a Tax Consultant in an MNC organization in India.‘To feel or not to feel’ is an interesting & emotional output( not outburst)to think about nuances of life. This anthology of 50 poems deals with duality, dimension, play with words and finally go beyond words! Each poem deals with a theme connected with a domain of life. All imageries such as sun, moon, black & white, dark & light, good & bad, are all confirmed with sooth feelings. Anything which is felt at any time, on any occasion,becomes a theme for introspection. This author sees rainbow as “painting the air”. She knows the ‘colour of greens’. She thinks of the magic way. Anything which is unexpected is the magic way for her! She makes people ‘deaf’ and prompts them to open up. Each poem speaks of the soft interaction between i & I. Time, space, shape and nature will make her think in several ways. She claims to make people stop think to think always! Fear or source of fear will not throttle her. She intends to connect with the ocean. She derives finally that we are all alone! She waits for the time and reflects hope in the eyes. The anthology of poems surprisingly has no creative use of language of business or taxation. A few can have this talent i.e., the talent of giving beyond these words and creative phrases. Every poem read at once will make a reader murmur. The poems here have the ability to distort inner serenity. The author reserves recognition for her talent which has just begun. She has the ability to listen here, whisper and finally derive strength in nature. She talks of brevity in the context of facing problems. Her choice is to chase “freedom” to claim, to grow and to manifest. The reviewer hopes of a great life of literature for this young talent. All students of business, I wish,to be as creative as this writer of words is if not more!.

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N. S. Viswanath

Abstract

The book under review is as on asset and liability portfolio of Indian farmers. The theme has been analyzed on the basis of panel data sets obtained from two major institutions– Central Statistical Organization (CSO) and National Sample Survey Organization (NSSO). The data sets related to the time points between 1991-92 and 2005-06. The authors have made numbers to reveal facts. The investors’ portfolio structure of Indian cultivator house holds have been analyzed in terms of farm business, non-farm business, household and financial assets.

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N. S. Viswanath

Abstract

This book makes a fascinating reading for anyone who gets the access. The Right First Job (RFJ) is always difficult for any job aspirant. If at all anyone has got it, that is purely by chance. The author describes RFJ, the personality and the industry in the Indian context. The characteristics of first job entrant have been described. This is used to make people ready with their resumes. Some elements of written communication are presented. The author describes in greater detail in need for effective participation in group discussion. Further, the interview process in any setting is lucidly explained. Special characteristics of technology, interview and the contents of an offer letter are enumerated with ease. The adaptability of a job extract in the first three months is detailed with human touch. The book also provides a plausible solution for the person who would not get RFJ. The author deserves a special credit for his language and effective communication with any reader. This book is a good text recommended for people who would like to reduce the uncertainties. This book is a good collector’s item in a household.

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N. S. Viswanath

Abstract

This book under review is based on the original work of Subhash Sharma in the area of Strategic Management. It is divided into five parts. There are sixteen chapters which is further sub divided into 89 themes. The author has followed phase-wise enumeration of theme of each part. In the area of knowledge creation, the three approaches i.e. quantitative - empirical, qualitative conceptual and creative –meditative are enumerated in detail. The description of the thought process moving from quantitative empirical to creative meditative is described by typology metrics. The author has succinctly divided intuition reality approaches into the above these to elucidate research approaches. Interestingly, approaches to research in mathematics, economics and social science have rationality & logic as their bases. The freedom of thought process uses words, metaphors and symbols to describe a concept. The author makes a comparison of scientific approach as against the approaches of scientists from psychology and physics and mathematics. The author documents some of the creative media research approaches which are likely to open up doors for rethinking. The limitation of the part one is that of accepting spirituality in the domain of scientific frame work. The author’s contribution to enumerate thought processes using acronym is a thoughtful idea. Phrases such as VITAL, Diya, Rishi, META, WISDOM are all facilitators to capture and recapitulate the scientific method of investigation.

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N. S. Viswanath ¹

Affiliations
1 Bhavan-Marshall Institute of Management, Bangalore, IN

Abstract

The Book under review claims to deal with a core subject of importance in business education. Economics cannot be taught as a subject of just ‘firm relevance’ or as a subject connected with business policy and governance. The treatment of the subject requires induction of the knowledge and of application to the business world. The students of business are not to be prepared as economists; they are however to be prepared as decision makers who would make firm level decisions based on endogenous and exogenous factors.

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N. S. Viswanath ¹

Affiliations
1 Bhavan-Marshall Institute of Management, Bangalore, IN

Abstract

The present book under review is the 4th edition of the book published in 2009. The book has had 29 reprints since it was first published in 1990. The present book has the fortune of a foreword by Prof.Theodore Levitt. The foreword proved a front runner for the seminal book written by Dr.V.S.Ramaswamy and Ms.S.Namakumari. The present review is based on several readings by the reviewer since March’09.

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N. S. Viswanath ¹

Affiliations
1 MP Birla Institute of Management, Bangalore, IN

Abstract

The publication under review is an anthology of papers published for a two day seminar on the same subject at Post Graduate Department of Management Studies and Research Centre of Siddaganga Institute of Technology(SIT),Tumkur in December 2010. The theme on Microfinance is spreading across countries, to enable respective governments, for chalking out action oriented programme for poor and the downtrodden. The theme acquires temporal relevance in the context of more than 40% of people in the world below poverty line. Financial inclusion is considered to be an infrastructure state policy to make people covered under safety net. Given the capabilities and feeble power of the poor, financing them for carving out sustained livelihood assumes greater significance.

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N. S. Viswanath ¹

Affiliations
1 M. P. Birla Institute of Management, Bengaluru, IN

Abstract

There are varying reports on the performance of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) since it took power on May 25th 2014. The analyses of the analysts provide a range from non-performance to the best performing government since independence. While it is incorrect to compare over irregular time period, it is equally important to realize that all performed Governments have set some definite trend keeping social and economic objectives set forth. The Planning Commission then had formulated plans which is now substituted by Niti Aayog. Five year and Roll on plans were formulated under earlier regimes while we have Niti Aayog directing us on the path way to progress.

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T. V. Srinivas ¹, T. Srivenkataramana ², T. V. Raju ³, N. S. Viswanath ⁴

Affiliations
1 Manipal University, IN
2 Department of Statistics, Bangalore University, IN
3 R. V. Institute of Management, Bengaluru, IN
4 M. P. Birla Institute of Management, IN

Abstract

This paper introduces the concept of a coverage process. It proposes and analyses a cuboid model for coverage processes seeking multi-dimensional expansion. The WHO view of Universal Healthcare is used as a seed to first develop a cube model. The conditions for optimum coverage are derived. The model is then generalized into a cuboid and some of its mathematical properties are investigated. The model has applications in areas like universal insurance, multiple financial inclusion campaign, immunization drives and service quality. This model is forerunner for intrinsic link between organization’s objectives with that of service quality delivery for effective relationship between clients and the organization.

Keywords

Coverage Rate, Cuboid Model, Geometric Mean, Impact factor, Linear, Geometric and Continuous Changes, Service Quality, Total Service Quality (TSQ) and Universal Healthcare.

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T. V. Srinivas ¹, N. S. Viswanath ², T. V. Raju ³

Affiliations
1 Manipal University, IN
2 Bhavan’s Management Research Center, Director General, M P Birla Institute of Management, Associate Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, Bengaluru 560 001, IN
3 RV Educational Institutions, Rashtreeya Sikshana Samithi Trust, Jayanagar, Bengaluru, 560 011, IN

Abstract

This short article dwells upon the concept of financial inclusion (FI) of a population, discusses it around the banking sector and its role in this context. It then considers measuring FI and suggests a few new quantitative measures of the same, along with their data requirements, which are not difficult to meet in practice. A brief mention is made about the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) and its implications. Scope for some further work is indicated.

Keywords

Banking Sector, CRISIL Index, Deposit Penetration, Financial Inclusion/ Exclusion, National Sample Surveys, Reserve Bank of India.

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