MANAGEMENT MASTERY - Kumaraguru College of Liberal Arts & Science (KCLAS)

In the dynamic world of business, the principles of management serve as the guiding compass for organizations seeking success and sustainability. These foundational concepts not only streamline operations but also foster a culture of innovation and teamwork. Join us as we explore 11 essential teams that exemplify these principles in action, shaping the future of effective management.

Learning Beyond Textbooks: A Fresh Approach

This semester, we’ve been trying out some new learning methods, and it’s been a game-changer! Instead of just focusing on textbooks, we’re using hands-on approaches that make everything so much easier to understand.

For subjects like Higher Financial Accounting and Mathematics for Business, we’ve been using something called MAT (Mathematics and Accounting Tutorials). Basically, we solve practical problems in class, which really helps us grasp the concepts better. No more flipping through pages trying to figure things out—working through problems step-by-step has made complex topics way more manageable.

For subjects like Principles of Management and Commercial Law, we’re using a method called CASE (Case Analysis and Simulation Exercises). It’s all about looking at real-world situations and applying what we’ve learned to solve them. This makes the lessons a lot more engaging and interactive, and we’ve been developing useful skills like critical thinking and problem-solving in the process.

What’s great about these new methods is how they bring theory to life. Whether it’s breaking down a business case or understanding legal concepts through simulations, it feels like we’re preparing for the real world, not just exams. Plus, it’s been fun to collaborate, work through problems, and pick up practical experience.

Overall, this new way of learning has been super effective. We’re not just memorizing stuff—we’re really understanding how to apply what we learn to real situations, and that’s going to make a huge difference in our future careers.

Namitha B, Nilaksha N, Harshika P, Samritha S, Subhiksha T,Trishala M

“Bridging Theory and Practice: Exploring F.W. Taylor’s Scientific Management through Toyota’s Success”

Working on our project about F.W. Taylor’s scientific management and its implementation in Toyota’s production system has been an eye-opening experience for our team. Engaging with real-world scenarios allowed us to connect theoretical concepts to practical applications, making the principles of scientific management more relatable and tangible. As we delved into Taylor’s theories and their evolution within Toyota, we found ourselves critically evaluating the impact of management decisions in contemporary settings. This not only deepened our understanding of management dynamics but also increased our confidence in analyzing organizational challenges.

Each of us valued the collaborative aspect of our project. Working alongside each other during simulations fostered teamwork and encouraged open dialogue, mirroring real-world business environments. Sharing diverse perspectives helped us think more creatively and strategically about problem-solving, reinforcing the value of collaboration in management practices. Many of us reflected on how these interactions not only enhanced our project outcomes but also prepared us for future professional teamwork. Through this hands-on approach, we gained valuable insights into continuous improvement and operational efficiency. The principles of standardization, employee selection, and training, as applied by Toyota, resonated deeply with us. We realized the importance of adapting management theories to address current business challenges, making the learning experience not just educational but also relevant to our future careers. Overall, our engagement in this project has transformed our understanding of management, making it a more enjoyable and meaningful endeavor. The CASE pedagogy has enriched our academic experience and equipped us with practical skills that will serve us well in our professional journeys.

Dhanaasri SV, Hannah Christilda C, Kaviyadharshini A, Niranjana V, Prabavathi G, and Sharmila S.

Working on Walmart’s coordination strategies

It gave us deeper understanding of how effective communication and technology can streamline business operations. Analyzing their real-time data systems, we learned how crucial advanced technology is in predicting market trends and optimizing inventory levels. This project also enhanced our research skills, particularly in studying large organizations’ supply chains.

This project highlighted the importance of inter-departmental collaboration. Through Walmart’s use of tools like Retail Link, we saw firsthand how coordination between sales, marketing, and logistics can reduce inefficiencies and ensure smooth operations. It also improved my ability to think critically about how global companies maintain operational consistency.

Understanding Walmart’s focus on employee engagement and development programs was the highlight for us. It showed us how crucial employee satisfaction and training are in maintaining smooth operations. This project deepened my understanding of the human element in business success and strengthened my ability to analyze employee management strategies in large corporations.

The pedagogy of studying Walmart’s coordination strategies offers significant learning outcomes, particularly in practical business management. It helps students apply theoretical concepts like coordination, cross-functional teams, and supply chain management in real-world scenarios, emphasizing the role of Vendor-Managed Inventory (VMI) and centralized decision-making. The project highlights the importance of technology, such as real-time data sharing, in optimizing operations and customer satisfaction. It also enhances teamwork, communication, and collaboration skills by examining Walmart’s internal coordination across departments.

Furthermore, it teaches strategic coordination for global operations, employee engagement, task management, cross-functional problem-solving, and adaptability in dynamic business environments. Overall, pedagogy integrates theory with real-world practices, improving students’ analytical and communication skills while underscoring technology’s critical role in business success.

Through strategic coordination, technology integration, and a focus on employee engagement, FreshMart successfully expands its operations across the region. The small chain, once limited in its reach, learns from the Walmart model to scale up efficiently, reduce costs, and provide excellent customer service. In this case study, FreshMart applied the pedagogy from the Walmart coordination strategies, transforming theoretical lessons into practical, real-life applications that led to measurable business success.

Sneka,Jaini shri,Monika,Merlin,Keerthana

How Hyundai is Driving Innovation with CASE and the Power of Coordination

In today’s fast-changing automotive world, companies like Hyundai need to stay ahead by embracing innovation. One of the key strategies reshaping the industry is the CASE model—Connected, Autonomous, Shared, and Electric vehicles. Hyundai has adopted this approach to meet the demands of future mobility, and its success hinges on an important management principle: coordination.

CASE breaks down into four major aspects of modern vehicle technology:

Connected vehicles use the internet to share real-time data, enhancing user experiences.
Autonomous vehicles aim to reduce human intervention, paving the way for self-driving cars.
Shared mobility offers flexible options like car-sharing, appealing to modern consumers.
Electric vehicles focus on sustainability, reducing environmental impact in the process.

But, to successfully integrate these advancements, Hyundai relies heavily on effective coordination across departments. Coordination ensures that different teams—like Research and Development (R&D), production, IT, and marketing—are all aligned to achieve Hyundai’s goals.

For example, coordination between R&D and production ensures that cutting-edge technologies like autonomous driving systems can transition smoothly from concept to reality. Similarly, Hyundai’s IT and marketing teams must work together to promote connected vehicles, ensuring the technology delivers on customer expectations.

Coordination is also essential in shared mobility services. Teams from legal, customer service, and operations need to collaborate seamlessly to ensure smooth service. A breakdown in communication can lead to poor customer experiences or operational hiccups.

However, coordination in a large company like Hyundai is no small feat. To overcome these challenges, Hyundai fosters open communication, transparency, and teamwork across departments. The company also uses digital collaboration tools to ensure real-time alignment toward common goals.

In conclusion, Hyundai’s embrace of the CASE model showcases the importance of coordination in innovation. By ensuring that all departments work together effectively, Hyundai stays at the forefront of the automotive industry, demonstrating how management principles can drive real-world progress.

Divya, Dhakshanaa, Vasundra, Tharshanaa, Srinika, Tamil

How Southwest Airlines is Tackling Major Challenges and Streamlining Operations

Southwest Airlines, one of the leading low-cost carriers in the U.S., has faced its share of hurdles in recent years, despite being the third-largest airline in the world. From flight delays to labor shortages, the airline has encountered numerous challenges while maintaining its low-cost model. Let’s dive into what Southwest has been up against and how they’re working to overcome these obstacles.

First up, operational issues. Southwest’s flight delays and cancellations have been a recurring problem, especially during severe weather. Their outdated crew scheduling technology didn’t help matters—remember the massive meltdown in December 2022? Thousands of flights were cancelled, and travellers were left stranded. To fix this, Southwest started upgrading its tech systems, focusing on improving real-time flight management and customer service. It’s about time, right?

Another major issue is labor relations. Like many airlines, Southwest has struggled with crew shortages, particularly among pilots and cabin staff, leading to cancelled flights and service cuts. On top of that, they’ve had disputes with unions, causing operational hiccups and even the threat of strikes. To tackle this, they’ve increased hiring and worked to smooth things out with unions—because no one wants their vacation plans ruined!

Southwest also faces tough competition. They may be a low-cost carrier, but they’re up against other budget airlines like Spirit and Frontier, which often offer even cheaper fares. Plus, legacy airlines like American, Delta, and United have larger networks and international alliances, giving them an edge in some markets. It’s a tough balancing act.

Financially, rising costs for fuel, labor, and maintenance have put pressure on Southwest’s profitability. Even though they’re great at managing costs, inflation makes everything harder. During the pandemic, they had to take on debt, which adds more financial strain as they try to modernize their fleet and invest in new technology.

On the customer service front, Southwest has seen complaints about lost baggage and delayed refunds, especially after the 2022 flight cancellations. The open-seating boarding system, which speeds up boarding, confuses some travellers who prefer assigned seats. To improve, Southwest has been focusing on better baggage handling, ground operations, and a more streamlined boarding process.

So, what are they doing to solve these problems? A lot, actually. Aside from upgrading their technology and hiring more staff, Southwest is investing in better contingency planning to handle unexpected disruptions, like severe weather or tech issues. They’ve also reworked their flight schedules to minimize delays and optimize routes. Plus, they’re focusing on improving customer service with enhanced baggage handling and training programs for ground staff.

In conclusion, while Southwest has faced some serious challenges, they’re taking steps to improve. From upgrading technology to better crisis planning, the airline is working hard to streamline operations and enhance the passenger experience. It’ll take time, but these changes should help Southwest handle future challenges with more ease and efficiency. Let’s hope for smoother skies ahead!

C.A. Lakshan Anandan,Sharvesh Sudharshanan S,R Rahul,N R S Pranav,Akash . S,J. Deepak Thothadri

Title: Transitioning Back to Office Work: Our Experience Analyzing Tech Solutions Inc.

Our team recently analyzed a case study on how Tech Solutions Inc. is managing the shift from a hybrid work model back to full office work. With about 200 employees, this IT company has been around for 24 years and switched to remote work during the COVID-19 pandemic. Now, after two years of hybrid working, the company is planning to bring everyone back to the office, but there are some key challenges they need to overcome.

The biggest challenge is the fact that employees live in different regions, some quite far from the office, which means long commutes for many. Add to that the fact that some employees prefer working remotely and are resisting the change. There’s also concern about how this transition might impact productivity and the work-life balance employees have enjoyed while working from home.

Here’s what we learned about the steps Tech Solutions Inc. is taking to ensure a smooth transition:

Planning: They started by analyzing the situation with surveys and meetings to understand employee concerns. From there, they defined their objectives and created detailed action plans that addressed logistics, tech updates, and HR support.
Organizing: A transition team was set up to lead the change, with HR, management, and employees working together. They’ve even allocated resources like transport support and workspace adjustments to make the process smoother.
Motivating Employees: This part was pretty cool! Tech Solutions is offering perks like commuting allowances and flexible hours to make coming back to the office more appealing. They also introduced wellness programs and mental health support, which should help with any stress employees might feel.
Communication: Keeping things transparent is key here. They’re providing regular updates to employees and making sure there’s a feedback mechanism in place, so concerns can be addressed quickly.
Managing the Process: By monitoring KPIs like attendance, productivity, and employee satisfaction, they’re ensuring things stay on track. The company is also prepared to adjust plans based on how the transition goes, which shows they’re open to feedback.
Administration: Everything is being documented, from feedback to the adjustments made along the way. This is important not just for compliance, but to keep upper management informed on how the transition is progressing.

In summary, this case study gave us great insight into how a company can handle a large-scale transition like this. Tech Solutions is tackling challenges head-on with a well-thought-out strategy that addresses both the logistical and emotional aspects of bringing employees back to the office. We really liked how they’re putting effort into keeping morale high and ensuring that productivity isn’t compromised during this change. It’s a solid example of how careful planning and communication can help a company navigate such a big shift!

Adisree,Sanjana,Jayaruba,Aaruthra,Sagari

Navigating Challenges: Our Analysis of Lay’s Strategic Moves

We recently dove into a case study on Lay’s, the famous snack brand that’s been around since 1932. Over the years, Lay’s has become a global leader, but with the changing market and shifting consumer preferences, it faces some major challenges. We found that Lay’s biggest issues revolve around the growing health-conscious trend, stiff competition, supply chain disruptions, and increasing environmental concerns. Health-conscious consumers are turning away from traditional potato chips, opting for healthier snacks, and the competition is coming up with innovative products, which puts pressure on Lay’s to step up its game. On top of that, the pandemic and other global events have created chaos in supply chains, impacting Lay’s ability to deliver consistently.

To deal with these challenges, Lay’s needs to innovate its product line by offering healthier options like baked or vegetable-based snacks. We thought it was smart for Lay’s to also boost brand loyalty by introducing creative loyalty programs and social media engagement—imagine fans creating new flavors or sharing their favorite ways to enjoy Lay’s! Another key point was Lay’s strengthening its supply chain with better forecasting and automation to handle disruptions better. We realized that without a solid strategy here, they could lose a lot of customers if shelves stay empty.

Lastly, we agreed that Lay’s should focus more on sustainability by switching to eco-friendly packaging and reducing its carbon footprint. Consumers are increasingly looking for brands that care about the environment, so Lay’s has to be transparent about its efforts. Overall, Lay’s has the potential to stay on top if it tackles these challenges head-on, stays innovative, and shows that it’s committed to both its customers and the planet. This case study really opened our eyes to how even established brands need to keep evolving to stay relevant in a fast-changing market!

Samith Suryaa,Dawin,Vishal,Preetham,Karuppiah,Punith

Lessons from a Reliance Store Closure: A Student’s Case Study Experience

Recently, our team had the opportunity to dive into an intriguing case study as part of our Principles of Management class, analyzing the closure of a Reliance Retail store in a prime location. It was a real eye-opener, as we explored the reasons behind this closure and brainstormed practical solutions for the company. Through interactive workshops, masterclasses, and video analysis, we connected the dots between theory and real-world scenarios.

One of the major challenges we identified was the declining footfall at the store, likely driven by the rise in online shopping trends. We also looked into market saturation—too many similar stores in the area might have been cutting into their sales. Finally, operational inefficiencies, especially in high-rent locations, may have made it tough for Reliance to stay profitable. This deep dive really showed us how complex business decisions can be!

But we didn’t just stop at identifying problems. Using insights from our workshops and masterclasses, we came up with recommendations like better market research, improving operational efficiency, and ramping up customer engagement. It was exciting to apply what we learned in class to a real business scenario, and the experience taught us how strategic management can make or break a company’s success.

Nithin Sanjay,Nithish.V,Aravind,Sachin,Arun Kumar,John Calvin

Puma’s Commitment to Authority and Responsibility: A Student’s Perspective

During our recent case study analysis, we explored how Puma has established itself as both a powerful player in the sportswear industry and a brand deeply committed to responsibility. From sustainability efforts to innovation, Puma has set high standards that go beyond just selling products. Through its “Forever Better” program, we were impressed by the brand’s dedication to reducing its environmental impact by using sustainable materials and cutting down waste. It’s amazing to see how Puma is setting an example for others by prioritizing eco-friendly practices.

We also looked into Puma’s social responsibility initiatives, and what stood out the most was the brand’s engagement with communities. Puma partners with NGOs and local organizations to promote fair labor and empower youth and women in various regions. This really made us realize that being a top brand means more than just having great products—true authority is about lifting others up along the way.

Lastly, Puma’s commitment to innovation and inclusivity was another highlight of our analysis. The brand continues to push the boundaries with cutting-edge designs that enhance both performance and style. What’s even more inspiring is Puma’s embrace of diversity in its campaigns, showing that sports are for everyone, no matter where you come from. Puma is not only leading in the industry but also driving positive change in society.

Sailesh,Sanjith,Sathyajith,Nithesh Kumar,Gokul,Sailesh

Google’s Approach to Employee Motivation

As part of our case study analysis, we dove into Google’s strategy for boosting employee motivation, and it was a real eye-opener. While Google is famous for its generous compensation and perks, we were surprised to find out that these alone weren’t enough to keep everyone motivated. Despite all the great benefits, Google faced challenges with declining employee satisfaction as they grew. The key takeaway here was that beyond money, people were looking for things like autonomy, purpose, and meaningful connections at work. That’s where Google’s innovative approach came in.

In our analysis of Google’s employee motivation strategies, we learned that despite offering high salaries and perks, the company faced challenges with declining motivation. Employees wanted more than just monetary rewards—they sought autonomy, purpose, and meaningful work. Google tackled this issue by implementing strategies like the “20% Time” initiative, which allowed employees to work on personal projects, and various learning and development programs to foster growth.

Google didn’t stop at just professional development. They introduced feedback systems, team-building activities, and social responsibility projects to ensure employees felt valued and connected. This holistic approach, focusing on both psychological and social motivators, created a strong sense of purpose and belonging among employees, boosting morale and job satisfaction.

The results were impressive. Google saw a 12% increase in employee satisfaction, a 25% reduction in turnover, and a 30% boost in product innovation. This case study taught us that understanding what drives people beyond money is essential for keeping a workforce motivated, especially in a fast-growing company like Google.

Shamiksha,Sniktha,Preethika,Roshini

Team Bonding at XYZ Technologies: A Day to Remember!

Our recent case study on XYZ Technologies’ one-day team outing at Resort A was a fantastic experience to analyze! With 250 employees, most of whom are working remotely, the company aimed to strengthen relationships and boost morale through this event. The day was all about creating a positive culture and fostering team bonding, and it truly delivered on those promises. From the planning stages to the feedback we gathered afterward, it was clear that the outing was thoughtfully designed to cater to everyone’s needs.

The event kicked off with ice-breaker games like “Two Truths and a Lie” and “Human Knot.” These activities were a great way to help employees—especially those who were remote—feel relaxed and get to know one another. The highlight for many was the treasure hunt, which encouraged teamwork and friendly competition. We also had plenty of time for recreational activities like swimming and boating, allowing everyone to unwind and socialize in a more casual environment. The whole setup was perfect for sparking those informal interactions that are so important in a hybrid work model.

Post-event feedback was overwhelmingly positive! With a 93% attendance rate and 90% of employees expressing satisfaction, it was clear that the outing had achieved its goals. People loved the balance of structured activities and free time, which allowed them to bond and rejuvenate. Overall, the day was not just about having fun; it reinforced a sense of belonging and teamwork that will surely resonate in the workplace moving forward. It was an insightful look into how effective team-building events can cultivate a strong company culture.

Mitra, Harithra, Deshna, Kayal,Shree Harini, Subhashree and Keerti Dharshini