The Pitfall of Lock in - Seth Godin

Inspiring thought on the eve of a new year for us all, esp those of us who are in "services" sector. 

Front end customer service has been pathetic in some of our services - 

• the so called privilege-banking customer is treated worse than mass ( when left high & dry), 
• at restaurants ( very low on hygiene & cust service), 
• courier service, and 
• in telecom, saddest. This is an area where we claim mass rural penetration. The folks from rural background and elsewhere are treated very badly by all front-end customer-touchpoints ( call center, showrooms and the notorious kirana shops, where people go to re-charge). Of course, people 're-charge' for very small denominations. But that is no excuse for not treating a fellow-human being with respect & degnity, esp when he is your customer. At times I have felt FDI is the moment of truth for the kirana, just as it is our #Karma-Of-Customer-Service !!

These thoughts were set off by this blog post by Seth Godin:

sethgodin/the-pitfall-of-lock-in.

7 Things That Make Great Entrepreneurs Tick | Inc.com

My take-away... 4 P's of Entrepreneurship :

1. Process - I am so glad to note this, and ranked #1. Ultimately, process is integral to anything we do...

2.  Passion - we have heard so much about 'passion' ! Today's Times Supplement quotes Deepika Padukone on Superstar, 'Rajnikanth is humble and passionate'. She goes on to add 'she has not seen someone more passionate about work'. At that level, as he displays, 'Work is truly worship & duty God'. He is a very spiritual person. She has seen many passionate people, incl my childhood hero, shuttler Prakash Padukone.

3. Problem Solving - ' necessity indeed is the mother of inventions' !

4. Prove - To prove to someone - outside or within ( own self)! In a broader context that gives us the motivation and push to stay on course...

4P's of Entrepreneurship : Process, Passion, Problem Solving & Prove

Courtesy: Linkedin   7 Things That Make Great Entrepreneurs Tick | Inc.com

VW Races With GM for 2013 China Crown - Businessweek

How we all tend to chase numbers, including the respectable media :)! 
As a car enthusiast, or a common-man following auto industry, my concerns lies elsewhere : strategy, product, safety, pollution, et al !
Should we all not focus on quality, rather than 'quantity' ?!

Sometime back, at the peak of the recall crisis (or immediately thereafter?!), Toyota said they would not chase sales-numbers, but profitability and other related numbers! Perhaps, yes... first safety, of course !

So... back to numbers!!

• VW brands will be helped by Chinese recovery, though the much-preferred Audi may see a drop, thanks to the situation arising out of corruption in establishments. 'Aam Admi' waking up there too, to the malaise of corruption in political admin !! 
• Chinese auto market may grow in double digits, 10%-ish !
• VW, riding on the basket of brands, will most likely hit 2.7 million cars, compared to 2.65 million cars by GM ( in China)

Unfortunately, VW is yet to extend that kind of focus on India. The premium brands (VW, Audi, etc) is doing reasonably well, the popular Skoda, thanks to the perception 'value for money' at the entry level of luxury (!!) is not getting due attention. Skoda having displayed the much cliched 'early-mover-advantage', VW seem to be clueless how to handle the brand in India. In the process, the Skoda cusotmer is suffering. Not getting the VW advantage at all. 

Big opportunity for Skoda, along with VW ( Polo, Vento and pls introduce more models) to strengthen position. Roads are a big focus in 12th plan. 

VW Races With GM for 2013 China Crown - Businessweek

Maruti may emerge as a brand of Suzuki globally MINT

According to reports, Suzuki may start selling 'Maruti Suzuki' brand outside India. 

With Indian auto industry growing (slowly, but surely!), this would be great news to auto enthusiasts in India.  Though the temptation would be to launch this brand at the lower end. But, it would be great if opposite happens ( wishful thinking?!)  

Suzuki can truly launch an India auto brand abroad, more than Mahindra or Tata, or any other brand. 
Do a Bajaj Auto stuff in auto market !!

I have seen Tata cars (not JLR!) on roads of Middle East. Indian expat could be a ready segment, waiting to be tapped. Of course the taste of pudding is when the local customer laps up in big numbers...

Interesting !!

Sourse: Maruti may emerge as a brand of Suzuki globally Mint

Related thoughts on an earlier posting:
Foreign Carmakers Ship More Made-In-USA Cars Overseas - Forbes

The Maya of Career

Read recently... got multiple forwards from friends...  
"THE MAYA(ILLUSION) OF CAREER IS ONE OF THE WORST....."

On the eve of a new year, Mayan 2012 behind us and with a new spiritual awakening, with all its resolutions & planning, this may come as a big shock. It got me on the wrong foot, I must confess. But, it was very soon replaced by a hearty laugh... I thought, how true! Most of us know that. But we do nothing about it !! 

We chase career at the expense of everything else in life. Work-life balance remains an eternal mirage !! And we blame everyone else for all problems at work. We don't take responsibility. After all, we made a choice. All that we experience today is the effect of choices we made earlier. Let us not blame it on parents/shcool/college/teachers/mentors/boss/spouse/colleague/kids.... WE CHOSE !!

We tend to lose the 'joy of living' in the process. Job and all that comes with it in the garb of 'success'.... image, financial power, big car, big house, big investments, reputed school, club membership, foreign/exotic holiday... etc. 
I don't mean all these are bad. But when needs become wants, we complicate our lives. In the process, we forget health, family, social responsibility, parenting and spiritual growth. We postpone the important things in life, in favour of corpoRATe race! Don't quit the job either. Be aware !!!
As it is often quoted, 'too much of even amrit ( nectar) is bad'. We fail to understand the thin life between too less, just right and too much. THAT IS MAYA...

May 2013 be a year to re-connect and overcome the Maya of Career... in favour of blissful living. 

GOD BLESS

Sunday Soul Sante

Visited to Sunday Soul Santhe on 23rd Dec ( Sunday, obviously !).

It was a long drive drive from home to the venue, at Sahakar Nagar (may be any IT connection?!), near Yelahanka, adjacent to a railway line (so many visitors were seen crossing the railway lines, never safe!).
Got to know the venue was recently shifted from Palace Grounds to this place. The venue was in one corner of this city, with its notorious, slow moving traffic, even on a Sunday morning. The ground was not ready either. But that perhaps added to the flavour of the event, except for the chaotic parking and lack of adequate direction for people to locate the venue.

Once inside, with a Rs 99 ticket, it was a different experience!! It was brimming with energy. The venue was filled with small stalls. Art in several avtaars, home decor, paintings, plants, pets, designs, lamp-shades, clothes, JBL, and also food joints...

Reminds you of Dilli Haat... But this is very contemperory.

This quarterly art event is a great idea and the informal, simple approach make it very unique. I am sure this must be a great attraction for all artists and art-inclined Bangaloreans.

Of course, I hope to improve my 'art quotient' through these visits. Also, recently read  Every Leader is an Artist . So, it makes sense to focus on art, as part of my leadership training & mentoring :)

Hats off to the brain behind the idea.... Kudos to all who set up shop on a hot Sunday.
Sunday Soul Sante on FB

I was there late morning & left early afternoon. The venue was getting ready for a rocking evening, when the temperature would have been good too. May be next time ?!

BBC Top Gear Skoda Yeti vs Renault Duster vs Mahindra XUV500

In interesting comparison of the three urban SUV. All 4X2 versions and on comparable features. Very fair assessment based on basic facts...

Thanks to my search for the new family car, or SUV, read this through in detail.

Though having made my choice, I am continuing the 'auto-alerts' on some of these models/segments/brands :)




One uncertain aspect about XUV 500 is how it will be after say 2 or 3 years... will become more like their 'jeeps'.  That is a common concern, even though now 'feature-rich'...
My guess is Duster is being lapped up purely for the perceived 'value for money' proposition. And we are very particular about this part of purchase-process, for sure. Of course, 'kitni deti hai' or mileage, is another factor... Even at these price points which is in one notch below the luxury segment?! The verdict is in line with all experts and my humble view too..Yeti... yehi hai right choice.... !!

Pls read of 9 pages, if interested in finer details :

Top Gear India Skoda Yeti Vs Renault Duster Vs Mahindra XUV500

5 Critical LinkedIn Optimizations That Take 5 Minutes or Less | Inc.com

Simple, but very valuable tips to manage our Linkedin Profile..

5 Critical LinkedIn Optimizations That Take 5 Minutes or Less | Inc.com

1. Agree on  photo. This always surprised me! Why are people reluctant to upload their photo ? On other platforms, Twitter/gmail/yahoo/FB/etc people upload none/dog/cat/family/caricature/et al !! But on a professional networking platform such as LinkedIn, it is very essential to upload a professional photograph. Of course, lucky friends in arts/advertising/etc can afford to upload a less formal photo. But if we are serious about leveraging this platform, a good photograph will surely help. ( I had my caricature on FB for a long time, a smarter avtar of myself!! I look less handsome on photograph, not being photogenic... still looking for a great photographer :) !!)
2. Professional headline just updated - utilised the entire space !?
3. Opportunity to enrich summary.... need more thought on this & shall use this better
4. Skills added - even my sports & extra-curricular activities from school & college days (Nostalgic!!) Dramatics used to on the stage then, but now part & parcel of professional, at times personal, life !! 'The world is indeed a stage....'
5. My linkedin profile is -vanity-URL-ed' already by Linkedin!! 

The recent option to 'endorse' was made simple & easy to use !! 

INNOVATION is not necessary a dramatic or drastic change or new development. But incremental improvements are more innovative. LinkedIn has kept the innovation process continuous thru incremental improvements. Useful, relevant and Frugal too...

Hats to team-Linkedin!

OMG & English Vinglish Two Hindi Movies I recently Watched

Saw two movies recently !!

As mentioned earlier, I take no chances with movies - play very safe. Would make adequate checks, from different, reliable sources, to ensure my time/effort/money/mindset does not go waste. And I don't feel let down by the brand/star/banner.

So, with some strong reco., watched two movies recently. Neither at theatres, as we were still in process of settling down at B'luru, lock-stock-barrel & dog ( dog having settled down, we are still in the process of settling down !) 

Watched both on Tata Sky! Showcase is good - no disturbances thru ad/tvc/banner.. simply non-stop movie... hopefully unedited, unlike aboard flights !!??

OMG was the first movie. Paresh Rawal is one dependable actor, across all genres. Here too, he comes up with a powerful, thought-provoking performance. Different story line. Even Akshay is good. Being a hit movie, hope people have got the message. To pursue true spirituality & not get bogged down with rituals...

English-Vinglish was the second movie. Good story line, direction, flow/editing,  star-cast, nice locations ('the' US of A). Sridevi comes up with a great performance... reminds you of her old classics like 'Sadma'. 
Ability to communicate in English is one of the differentiators in our society. It could be classified as a colonial-hangover. Though our call centers fill their seats with not-so-fluent-in-English staff (seem to hit a new low, every time I try a new service provider/org.!!), spoken-English is still hot !! When the family members ridicule someone, esp a mom, at home... it makes an interesting theme. When "Morality in Society" takes a new dip in our society, "Respect for Elders", one of fundamental Indian ethos, also being forgotten.

Both films reminds us to be empathetic to others ( incl family) & love God (not bribe)

iPhone Press Campaign in India

I was shocked to see the front-page/full page ad for iPhone 4 !!! Thought why on earth Apple was promoting iPhone 4. 
Wondered why was it not 4S !

After few days, there is a front-page/full page ad for iPhone 5 in today's newspaper!!
The ad for iPhone 4 has gone into page 2 ( inside cover)... again full page and for iPhone 4 ( not 4S)!! Was it a 'teaser' !?!?

Also, does iPhone or any Apple gadget need a front page, full page ad?!

iPhone has not captured the imagination of many in India. I find most using old BB or Samsung. Wonder how a generation missed out on iPhone. Reasons are familiar - expensive, restrictive ( vs Android - we love 'freedom' !!) In the process, fan following for Steve Jobs are lower in numbers too.

There is no doubt what is best in each of the categories - 'phone or pad'. Of course, no competition for 'pod' 

But the ad campaign defied logic..... May be something intelligent will unfold in near future.


 

Remembering the Mixie

Interesting read on the innovation, 'MIXIE...! 

I had expressed some thoughts on The Saga of Food Processor, as part of my 're-location' pains! the-saga-of-food-processor
 
Indeed, we have seen the transition from the traditional stone-grinders to 'Sumeet/Meenu' & other brands of 'mixies' ! But, as a kid, I remember trying my hand at the big idlli/dosa grinder.
Related innovation included, the shift to gas stove & pressure cooker.. And, of course, the lantern/kerosene lamps to electricity..
Something our children may not be able to visualise :)

But the taste of idli (& dosa) made traditionally had a different taste, definitely more delicious!!  

• stone grinder to prepare batter ( a mechanical version is now available, 'Santha' & ' Butterfly' being two popular brands!)
• specific idli steamer, vis-a-vis the current pressure cookers - white cloth was used instead of a coat of oil now used!
• traditional chulha - that guaranteed slow cooking, compared to LPG stove. ( rice upma is another break-fast dish that will taste distinctly superior when cooked on traditional chulha).

I am not batting for the traditional ( polluting) chulhas or kerosene lamps, or grinders...
Just going down the memory lane. It had its own charm, surely!! 

http://blogs.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/Citycitybangbang/entry/remembering-the-mixie#comments

Credit card complaints against SBI, ICICI Bank, HDFC: Govt - Indian Express

According to FM, the Central Bank of the county (Reserve Bank of India -RBI) has received# comlpaints in 2011-12:

• 5,198 complaints against State Bank of India 
• 1,211 against ICICI Bank  and 
• 1,153 against HDFC Bank, current market leader.

Small number. But several card holders have complaints against many card-issuers in the country. Big scope to improve service to 'Enchantment' levels...
 
Credit card complaints against SBI, ICICI Bank, HDFC: Govt - Indian Express

5 Easy Ways to Eliminate Stress and Perform Your Best | Inc.com

I would suggest just focus on the fifth step alone. It will help not only eliminate stress at that point of time, but also has numerous other benefits - one of them being prevention. 'Avoid' getting stressed :)

Deep breathing...or Meditation, which I feel, is more holistic. Or any related technique thereof.

It is important to pick up one meditation technique we are very comfortable and focus on it. ( Can suggest a few, simple ones to choose from)
Then allow to grow. Guidance will come from within.

Love & Light
 
5 Easy Ways to Eliminate Stress and Perform Your Best | Inc.com


Related Links:
Buddist Meditation - courtesy Speaking Tree ToI
http://www.speakingtree.in/spiritual-articles/mysticism/go-step-by-step?track=1&uid=109878&date=20121213

BBC News - Jaguar Land Rover considers manufacturing in Saudi Arabia

As per my previous post 'foreign-carmakers-ship-more-made-in-usa', there should be one good car brand, with manufacturing facility in GCC, to cater to entire MENA region. With Saudi Arabia being largest market in the region, the natural choice. With this aluminium smelter, additional advantage.

BBC News - Jaguar Land Rover considers manufacturing in Saudi Arabia

5 Apps To Prevent Your Teen From Texting While Driving

• It is tempting to check phone when you get a text msg and also a call
• Not only teenagers, but every age group, across all categories of drivers, is guilty
• Yesterday I was waiting by the road for 15-20 mts: I saw a Volvo (public bus transport) driver on his mobile phone, 2/3 car drivers on phone and few on two-wheelers !!! I call this #CowboyOnIndRoad, with phone on one hand & horn on the other, along with steering, of course!

5 Apps To Prevent Your Teen From Texting While Driving

Foreign Carmakers Ship More Made-In-USA Cars Overseas - Forbes

Honda-USA has reached a milestone, will export one millionth vehicle to S Korea!! Wow !!

Honda producing cars in USA, for over 30 yrs, with a view to 'make cars closer to customers', American cars with Japanese quality'. 
This has been in sharp contrast to Toyota strategy to make more cars in Japan.

Always wondered, why strong brands, which sell big nos in USA, do not produce more locally.
Apple included. (Apple just announced they will make more apple products locally)

Acc to the article, the top export markets for US-built vehicles are: Canada, Mexico, Germany, China & Saudi Arabia. I wonder, why not increase production in China and start in Saudi Arabia, to cater to local needs and also within the region, GCC/MENA ?

That would mean lower cost & more jobs.  A 'glocal' brand. A good example is Maruti Suzuki in India.

Foreign Carmakers Ship More Made-In-USA Cars Overseas - Forbes

Selecting a CAR

First phase of re-location complete, that is roti-kapda-makaan, phase !

Next phase had to be selection of a car. Public transport is an area of concern across of India. (Kerala is an exception). Mumbai is over-crowded with auto, taxi ( kaali-peelli, blue-cab, fleet taxi, et al). Public transport, in spite of an efficient BEST bus service & the local trains ('life-line'), is grossly adequate.

Bangalore has a good Volvo fleet of buses moving around in some parts of city. But public transport, both buses and a 'namma metro' at its very initial phase, are just not enough :(
But auto rickshaws... they have surely not seen Amir Khan's 'aditi devo bhava' campaign, to put it mildly :) Virtually no taxis, unlike Mumbai or Delhi. Fleet taxis are quite expensive.

I considered a bicycle, inspired by what I had seen at Singapore.
Then I thought of a motorcycle... not confident to ride, after over 20 yrs... traffic does not seem to be safe at all. That is when I was forced to think of acquiring a car... to move on from 'be-car' ( pronounced 'bekaar')  status !

Our cars are surely very expensive, thanks to the tax-regime. Fuel is more expensive!!

 We buy cars based on our aspirations and we buy homes based on what we are...

Owning & maintaining  a car  here is still an expensive option.

Being from the industry, I have been tracking developments in the auto industry. Have posted some tweets on #dieselation of Indian auto !!!
Went on-line & looked at some of the options.. also the planned launches in 2013. Auto Car & other magazine websites, C&B/Overdrive on idiot-box, I follow some auto- cos/guys on twitter, etc. Team-BHP was a new source, I was blissfully unaware of! 2013 looked very promising with planned launches! Future always look bright :) But my need is urgent & immediate :)

• I started off with the recently launched Alto 800. I did not consider Tata Nano at all - not because of their positioning disaster, but safety, riding comfort, et al.
• Then looked at Swift, one of my all time favourites... was driving a red Swift before moving abroad, when the model was at the initial phase of launch. That was when the car was at the Probe & Learn phase for the Prospectors and was not a big hit it became later !!
• Then to i20. All friends had very good words about i20. I was very tempted to go for it. A friend recently bought it, himself from vehicle industry & having done extensive research.
• Did not consider Mahindra range - not confident of a hassle free ownership and noise-free drive ( many warned. . .) I was surprised to see reports on huge discounts available on most brands, incl the recently introduced Quanto !! ( Car Discounts )
• Duster was a hot option. But, several efforts to get a test-drive just failed. Couple of tweets, requests on website & call center  later, I am still waiting. One call center executive was rather blunt to say 'if you are willing to wait for 3 to 4 months for duster....". No effort to up-sell at all !!!
• Experience with Polo was just opposite. Prompt reaction & test drive arranged. Liked the car, but a bit too expensive ?? Peppy and solid. Got 'go ahead' from junior for same !!
• European cars, which have been termed 'premium guzzlers by ToI' looked tempting...
• I had reserved the best for the end. I decided to check out Toyota and Skoda. Toyota is a dominant market leader in some other markets like Middle East, Skoda is not in the contention there at all. But here, both brands are very popular. Former for complete ownership experience, but the latter carries the baggage of poor service-track-record & perception thereof ! 
• I was also moving into the familiar territory (comfort zone?!) of a SUV or at least a crossover !
• Fortuner was never a favourite brand earlier. Perhaps for same reason, did not quite enjoy the drive. And a bit too expensive, I felt ! I still can not understand why Toyota is so expensive in India.
• Innova is their 'bread & butter' ! That is perhaps a wrong marketing strategy for a world leader! Indian auto market & car-owners surely deserve better deal. Or is it the quality of roads ? But the test drive of Innova was a revelation. It is a great car to drive, enjoy solid re-sale value and not expensive to maintain at all. As a car, it truly deserves all the adulation & reco. 
• Then I drove a Skoda Yeti. (http://www.cartrade.com/reviews/Skoda-Yeti-116374.html) When I saw this car with a friend few months back, I fell in love. When I got a drop, I was impressed. Other models of Skoda looked very elegant and more importantly, better value for money. Test drive was a great experience too. I checked out  a 4X2. But liked very much. Felt some minor problem regarding the clutch/gear/transmission. But overall a great vehicle. But, Skoda seem to carry the impression/baggage of bad after sales service. For an expensive asset, that surely is a point of concern.

My heart says, Yeti. Head says 'Innova'. Son says no 'taxi' innova. Wife liked Innova, but now prefers Yeti. I don't want to spend a fortune on a new car !!

I am still evaluating.... a bit confused.... even as auto/automobiles/car-makers-like-maruti-hyundai-honda-volkswagen-and-gm-threaten-price-hikes-to-clear-inventories !!!
The expected price hike is attributed to the cost of production going up and also the diesel-levy expected !! Smart marketing, though very old trick :)

Shall update.. when I decide :)



  

The Saga of Food Processor

Stone grinder used for making dosa/idli batter








Yet another stone grinder used to make  Chutney and all spicy masala that make our curries hot!

Some of you, readers, would not have seen this. But some of us would remember seeing this at our homes, at least ancestral homes in the villages, when we were kids... ( I am feeling old!)

Idli/dosa prepared using these ( instead of electric mixer/grinder/food processor), traditional stove which burnt wood ( instead of faster LPG), utensils made of traditional metals ( vis a vis non-stick), slow cooking (vs fast cooking, fast-food) etc.,  always tasted a lot better.

You may wonder why I am getting a bit nostalgic...

As shared earlier, we bought a food processor on 26th Nov. The promised demo ( 'next day') happened today... after ten days. '10' instead of '1' day... afterall, we gave the world 'zero' :)

Seemingly the problem was the service team from the european multi-national (world leader, in at least some of the products??), were just not able to reach me. I trust them... Seemingly they did not prefix '0' to mobile no !!! IN the process one became 10 !
 I call it #KarmaOfCustomer Service

Glad to update the technician materialised at our place today, and he has 'demonstrated' the latest in food-processor technology.
Delighted to share chutney will re-enter our simple ( frugal?) food spread with immediate effect.

Of course, the wet-grinder is still on my 'To Do' list.

LG and other brands

Based on couple of queries from reader-friends, here is upate:
Regret to inform the demo by food processor company (brand deliberately not specified) still pending !! 'Re location Experiences' just got a bit painful. My chutni, dosa, curry, et al. Prolonged 'frugal living' ?!

LG was very prompt in the installation, demo & follow up service call!
The Food processor company has been sending text messages assuring demo in 8 hours... This world leader needs to define 'time' !! I am tempted to add, 'customer's time is priceless' !

or is it #KarmaOfCustSer?

Have been calling & sending mails to Tata Croma religiously, who originally made promises. Just sent a mail to the food processor company (they definitely have a fancy website!) God Bless...

QN TO TATA CROMA IS : WHY SELL BRANDS YOU CAN NOT #ENCHANT CUSTOMERS ?

2nd Dec '12:
I never considered the korean brands as the preferred choice - esp when it came to cars and consumer durables. Always felt German and Japanese respectively were tougher and more suitable to Indian conditions ( heat/dust/rough-use).
 
A chance exposure to LG's success story in US in the last decade...

• an interesting discussion on their marketing strategy, 
• success thereof, as they hit no. 1 slot, 
• personal experiences of how LG engineer came, promptly, to somewhere in interior UP, etc...

Suddenly I decided to buy LG refrigerator only. As advised by a friend, went straight to Tata Crome and bought a base (frugal living!) model. Though I did not get a bigger and a more colourful piece.

Tata Chrome's sales team was neither 'threatening' nor too passive. Billing process was professional. They sent me an e-mail, with the invoices ( as I bought a food processor too, not a korean brand, but a mega-European brand*) and a text message reg the delivery/installation and a demo thereafter. To check out their services, I opted for demo by both the teams. As promised, both items were delivered by evening.

Within an hour, LG person called to fix up time for demo., landed, explained the features and left. (Wife would have thought I had 'forgotten' how to use a basic, no frills refrigerator). That was followed up with a telephone call to take feedback on all aspects of demo-incl., soft skills. That was quite impressive and in line with the new perception at the class-room ( of veterans at executive edu program!)

Delighted to note, LG has set a new benchmark in customer service... I hope their product is so good, I will have no need for any service call. But, hope their after sales service is as professional & caring even after few years... That alone can help them garner a good chunk of the fiercely competitive, but growing refrigerator market in India.

* After almost a week, I am still waiting for the demo-guy from the food processor company, who has been 'threatening' to come! Though they have been around for decades and enjoys a high recall, they are still living in past! Unaware of Indian consumer's preference on product features & service.

Clay modeling

Was clay-modeling one of your hobbies ? Did you love toy cars then ?!

Check out the link ! You could have been doing something similar :)

Stii not too late, it can be your plan for 2nd or 3rd Innings!! A la Andrew 'Boxer' Flintoff .....

At least encourage your child when he or she shows any such interest.

	Mercedes-Benz India (@MercedesBenzInd)
23/11/12 11:20 Creating a clay model is a crucial step in the car designing process. But how does it work? Check it out: youtu.be/QCXkBMf1pQ4 #SLS #AMG

Andrew Flintoff's 3rd Innings

Just as we are waiting (eternally!!) for the next Kapil Dev, England cricket-fans are waiting for their next Ian Botham :)

Andrew Flintoff, former England cricketer, was one all-rounder who many thought would fill in the shoes of Ian Botham. He was a brilliant all-rounder. But for various reasons, incl injuries, he did not reach the cricketing heights of Ian Botham.

Now he is in news for a different reason all together. The way people manage their '2nd innings,' just hit a new high !! He is taking up boxing!! WOW ! That is what I call true '3rd Innings'! Go beyond all logic, follow your heart... pursue your madness...Such a fighter he is, on cricket field or elsewhere, boxing world watch-out....

Cricketers usually enters areas such as commentary, newspaper column, cricket admin, coaching, etc ( Of course, also Upper House membership, while still "playing", but not scoring!*)


* Just as Siddhu wriggled out of a reality show to appear at the cricket-commentary box, Sachin may be summoned to the Upper House to vote in favour of FDI retail.

To Do List

Got this small (crisp) gyaan on 'being professional' ! 

Keep Your To-Do List Fresh with the 3-Day Rule

A to-do list is only useful if you cross things off as often as you add tasks on. If something's been on your list for more than three days, do one of the following:

• Do it immediately. It may take you less time than you think.
• Schedule it. Find a time slot on your calendar when you can get the task done. If it's important enough to have on your list, then commit to doing it at a specific time and day.
• Let it die. If you're not willing to do something immediately or schedule it for later, you won't ever do it. Accept that it's not really a priority and take it off your list

You may find this a 'no-brainer'.  But, if you are in my position, re-locating big time, it will be a different story altogether.

I am shuffling with a long 'to-do' list... as part of settling down :)

Tried listing down & then, decided to use iPad's to do list ! At least it appears better on the screen :)

It has not helped to close out the pending stuff sooner, but it saves paper & hassle of writing & re-writing process !

Mahindra Rise

Some interesting historic facts about Mahindra & Mahindra:

• Started off as a steel trading company in 1945.. and the name of company was MAHINDRA & MOHAMMED!! 
• By  J C Mahindra and K C Mahindra, who joined forces with Ghulam Mohammed. But in 1947, latter left to become the finance minister of Pakistan.
•  Mahindra Bros (with name changed to Mahindra & Mahindra) entered automotive sector in 1947, driving in the iconic Willys Jeep. 

        No wonder they have remained an Indian brand and an extremely popular one..

 

Their recent launches, incl XUV 500 and South Korean brand, cater to two opposite sides of the spectrum, mass vs affluent!

As such their plan to move up the range was a natural evolution. But Aston Martin would have been an interesting acquisition, for reasons more than 007!!! The experts' opinion were divided - to buy or not to buy!!

Most of the experts had predicted Tata's acquisition of JLR was a sure recipe for failure. But they  wrong ( But Nano continue to be a challenge, which experts felt was a sure hit!!!)
This time, the opinion on Aston Martin was as such more guarded !! Once bitten... :)

I thought it was a gamble worth it. . .

The latest report says, "no sale, but just capital infusion". Which means all discussions were premature ?!

But great to see our local brands scouting for international brands, in areas such as automotive, where we are no great power...

 

Courtesy: http://www.astonmartin.com/cars/db9

Volkswagen global sales up nearly 15% in October - The Economic Times

Volkswagen global sales up nearly 15% in October - The Economic Times

One of ME 2012 COTY

Hyundai Centennial is one of the 2012 COTY in ME.
Great car to drive, still better to be driven around. Hyundai is going up the curve. 

Image Courtesy: http://worldwide.hyundai.com/WW/Showroom/Cars/Centennial/PIP/index.html

When I got a chance to drive Centennial at REEM track !

Also check out for more info: 
http://main.omanobserver.om/node/125921

Volkswagen versus iPhone 5 | The Car Tech blog - CNET Reviews

Some of us love cars.
Many of us love music.
As such, there are many who love both !

I love Nissan range also for their Bose music system.

Sharing this link for car lovers who are Apple fans & love fans :0
Volkswagen versus iPhone 5 | The Car Tech blog - CNET Reviews

Auto News India : Used car entry by VW

Volkswagen is entering the used car market in India. Das Auto will also be DAS WELT AUTO, 
the global pre-owned car business of VW. This will surely send the right signals to the market regarding VW's long term plans in India.

Interestingly, they hope to generate 25 % of their income from this business.
They will compete with Mahindra First Choice, the leading organised player in multi-brand, pre-owned car market. 

True Value from Maruti earns a good 1.3 times higher than their corresponding new car business. A proof of the potential of this segment, now dominated by unorganised sector. Of course Maruti has the advantage of scale, depth in service, relatively ease of servicing for their less-techie models.

Customer can only be happy about these developments ! !

ET Awards 2012: We followed pretty much a philosophy like Apple, says HDFC Bank chief Aditya Puri - The Economic Times

According to the report,

• he draws on management gurus, Philip Kotler or Michael Porter to explain his success:  somewhere I am sure the powerful principles of these gurus come into action, but in different ways
• but age old Indian tradition, KARMA YOGA: nishkama karma is a great philosophy to guide
• they follow the principle of Apple: Surely benchmark in innovation

ET Awards 2012: We followed pretty much a philosophy like Apple, says HDFC Bank chief Aditya Puri - The Economic Times

Hyundai to display Centennial & Genesis Prada at Saudi show

• The Centennial, which claims 'offers a first-class driving experience', with Hyundai’s TAU V8, the 4.6-litre TAU DOHC V8 unit produces 373 hp.
• Genesis Prada is a special edition that has been produced in collaboration with the world renowned fashion designer Prada, and featuring the designer’s signature Saffiano leather.  The 4.6-liter V8 engine, 1,200 of this Limited Edition model have been produced worldwide. The Genesis saloon houses a 290hp 3.8 V6 DOHC engine and comes with all the premium elements expected in a luxury saloon, including leather seats and wood paneling

Business Line : Companies News : Volkswagen to reposition Skoda, other brands in India

Volkswagen has a problem 'of plenty' with Skoda being identified as a luxury model here !!

VW has to get the positioning correct, for all 3 brands here, incl Audi.


Business Line : Companies News : Volkswagen to reposition Skoda, other brands in India

Report: Hyundai, Kia Repaying Buyers for False Mileage Claims - Rumor Central

"Hyundai and Kia are lowering the fuel economy ratings of some 900,000 vehicles due to a “procedural error” made during the Environmental Protection Agency’s testing cycle. Seven different 2013 Hyundai models and different 2013 Kia models will see their ratings drop by anywhere from one to six mpg."
 Report: Hyundai, Kia Repaying Buyers for False Mileage Claims - Rumor Central

India not a priority for new models, investments till 2015: Volkswagen

I was surprised to see this headline, it is all over the media !!!

1. VW is the potential world No.1. But, can they ignore Indian auto market in their journey to global leadership ?
2. India is a different market - with the consumer behaviour unique, tax-regime not great and business environment, challenging. But then, can any top car manufacturer ignore such a market, with the greatest potential ?
3. Will it not give extra time for competition to erect barriers ? ( though VW, Skoda & other group brands already present in India)
4. Is it not a bad PR ?
5. Most importantly, a potential customer may over-react to this headline thinking VW may not invest in after-sales service and may exit, etc. That can work against the brand too.

The link:
India not a priority for new models, investments till 2015: Volkswagen - NDTVProfit.com

2013 Man of the Year: Sergio Marchionne - Automobile Magazine

"Foresight or sheer luck ? " But a great turnaround story...

• Italian-Canadian, not American, CEO of an authentic American brand!
• Car-lover, but not an automobile expert... 
• More of a numbers' guy, accountant/legal areas being the forte
• Famous for his delegation and man-management skills - a true business leader
• Most importantly, "The only thing that matters in the end, is the bottom line." Something, we bankers tend to forget, at times !!

Many of us have seen Chrysler regaining its position in the market space. While Ford & GM got more media coverage, Chrysler was at it, quietly. Customers in Middle East were delighted with the  new models and the fresh approach.

Inspiring stuff on leadership... 

2013 Man of the Year: Sergio Marchionne - Automobile Magazine

Car Loan? Let tenure decide the type of loan you take this season | Firstpost

A long discussion & suggestion to go for floating rate for long tenor on car loans, this festive season.
With the interest rates seemingly having peaked now, simple logic says go for a floating rate & get benefit thereof.

But would not suggest long tenor, esp 5 to 7 years. It is always better to go for less than 5 years. Long tenor means we are stretching ourselves, for a simple mode of transportation/commuting. Not worth it. Dream car can wait :) Savings as much important!!

A good idea would be to look at in-house finance options from some of the manufacturers also.

And last but not least, negotiate hard 

Happy & Safe Driving!

Car Loan? Let tenure decide the type of loan you take this season | Firstpost

Noor E KHUDA

"Kisi ki zindagi ka noor ban'na ek kala hai........", says a jeweller TVC.

Thought provoking ad, I felt. 

We tend to waste life living up to the expectations of our parents, friends, boss, relatives, spouse/family, community, social groups, etc.

'Noor' to ban'na hi hai, in this life time. Else it is waste of a brilliant opportunity.

magar.... 'Noor-E-Khuda'..... nothing less will do. 

Then there will be no stress in life either. Be Happy, Always

Rolls-Royce unveils wedding edition of 'Ghost' and 'Phantom' cars in India - ET

Rolls Royce will now sell 'wedding' editions of their icononic cars in India. Smart marketing strategy, one may say.

'One tenth of their cars are gifted'. May be either dowry or 'gifts' (or exhortion) to rich & powerful!!
There is will be huge demand from many the rich and mighty - surely from from the target segment, 'super rich' but also from nouvue-riche, who has a higher propensity to show-off !!!

And, Indian weddings will hit a new low, with this.
After our obsession to spend a fortune in jewellery ( when gold prices are skyrocketing) and all paraphernalia that goes into the celebrations, this will be a new opportunity in show-baazi!

Then, we say 'marriages are made in heaven'. No wonder more marriages are hitting road-blocks. When the holy event ('ssat janam ka rishta') is on the foundation of artificial celebrations (& illegal, at times), marrital bliss can not be the end result.

Rolls-Royce unveils wedding edition of 'Ghost' and 'Phantom' cars in India - The Economic Times on Mobile

5 reasons why you should consider blogging - Zemanta Blog

Came across this interesting post on 'why all professionals should blog': 

5 reasons why you should consider blogging - Zemanta Blog

Blog is a place where you can be yourself . Helps to share thoughts without the hassle of seeking others for a patient hearing :) Language, grammar, syntax etc are not key at all.

It helps you to take some stuff out of your head and hence good technique to overcome thoughts bothering you.

Communication of any kind is welcome. Here you deprive others being judgemental, however foolish your thoughts are :)

Happy Blogging !!

Banks to drag finance companies of car makets to CCI - ET

The leading luxury car players, BMW, Merc, VW family ( VW, Audi & Skoda) and Toyota have all pushed for volumes through their internal finance outfits. 'A unfair trade practise', feel the leading players in banking area, SBI, HDFC, ICICI, etc.

• Unfair to banks ? May be... Sour grapes or genuine interest for customer, who may not get best deal ?! :)
• Unfair to customers? May not be. The smart customer will go for the best deal. But then, the best deal may not be really 'the best', when there is internal subvention among the manufacturer and in-house finance company
• Unfair to their own brand & long term strategy ? May be... because, by pushing internal finance outfits, they will be shutting off support from banks. Losing an opportunity to tap banks' existing customers. Remember Fiat's FISAF? Maruti grew when they looked beyond few preferred financier-players
• Does the issue deserve to be taken up at C C I by these top banks? Perhaps over-reacting!!

What about similar arrangements for trucks ( Tata, AL) and far-equipment (M&M). Also, what about two wheeler finance ( Bajaj)? Here customers can complain banks are not supporting enough.  PSU banks are not there in CV Finance. Private banks are not uniformly aggressive, in view of the cyclicality of CV industry. Some leading private banks have exit two-wheeler finance.!!

Food for thought !

http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/economy/finance/banks-plan-to-drag-finance-companies-of-car-makers-to-cci/articleshow/16945204.cms

INTERBRAND Best Global Brands 2012

The top 3 brands, across all categories are:

1. Coca Cola - No surprise here. Coke maintains its leadership in this category ! Great achievement, surely.  ( Pepsi is a distant 22)
2. Apple - Apple is catching up. Coke should be worried. Interestingly, next four slots are occupied by tech companies, though each of them are in more areas where tech matter, such as telecom/search, et al.
3. IBM
4. Google
5. Microsoft

Among cars, 10 to 12 are occupied by the auto brands. Toyota retains the top position among car-brands, in spite of recall crisis and related PR fiasco. VW is a distant 39 surprisingly, Hyundai is at 53, but Audi at 55 !! Porsche & Ferrari are way below
10. Toyota
11. Mercedes Benz
12. BMW
39. VW
53. Hyundai
55. Audi

For more details:
http://www.interbrand.com/en/best-global-brands/2012/Best-Global-Brands-2012.aspx

Leadership Trends in India's No 2 Bank - ICICI Bank

Some highlights :

• Most of the business leaders are in their early forties
• CEO 'praising in public' for the exceptional talent
• Market share is no longer the 'holy book', but other banking performance parameters. Total turnaround indeed !
• Leadership development through historian, aviator & environmentalist... Black Swan is the way ahead ! 

Interesting trends in leadership development in one of top banks in India.

Courtesy:
http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/news-by-industry/banking/finance/banking/surviving-the-credit-crisis-how-chanda-kochhar-team-pulled-icici-back-from-the-precipice/articleshow/16936100.cms?curpg=2

RIP Yash Chopra

Lahore to Jallandhar to Mumbai.

RIP King of Romance. 

Over the five decades, he has given more to the film-world, than he would have received. 

The legendary story teller had a beautiful way of narration. He gave the some of the biggest breaks to two super-stars of our generation, BigB & SRK. He was a flamboyant story teller, opting for some most exotic locations and beautiful settings.

His family wanted him to become an engineer. Fortunately, he pursued his (professional) dreams and entered film-world. He followed his dream with passion. 

It is never too late to pause, think and change track to pursue our professional dreams...  Then, no question of professional stress at all!



 

Beautiful People on CNBC TV18

Watched Jeet Thayil's (Booked shortlisted author of 'NACROPOLIS') with Anuradha Sengupta.

I felt he was spot on in terms of Bombay's decline to Mumbai over the last few decades. But then, that is case with most of other cities - Delhi was jugaad capital, now corruption capital!
- Bangalore has deteriorated from garden city to a concrete city, clean city to a garbage all over ( no mechanism to dispose, in this IT city!!!), now Bengaluru!
- Calcutta's make over from a communist fiefdom to Kolkotta & still stuck in past
- Most of our cities are less safer for our children, women
- Corporate stress has hit a new low, with more executives suffering (the new bomb set to explode)

Everyone search for happiness outside. Jeet also mentioned how he became a drug-addict and then shook off the habit. But he spoke about a level of bliss, when under addiction. He went on to allude there was no other way one could experience such a high. 

That is where I beg to differ. 'World is full of mysterious things...'
The mistake we make is we search for happiness outside. When true happiness is within. How to experience the bliss, minus any health hazard?! MEDITATION. Instead of health hazards, it will open a new world, full of genuine, lasting BLISS.

Blissfully !

PS : Got this forward from a friend :

Scott Neeson left Hollywood to save children rooting in Cambodia's garbage dumps: He sold his mansion, Porsche, and yacht and set off for Cambodia to provide food, shelter, and education to destitute children 

http://www.dailygood.org/more.php?n=5219

 

India Inc under 'stress': Fear of layoff, pay cut and work pressure pushing more employees into depression - The Economic Times

You would have seen this report on today's ET

• Right on the front page, on top! ( what a way to start a day!)
• The protagonist is one Mr Bhagat, who is stressed out @ work! 
• The article goes on to say, 'Bhagat is one of thousand corporate executives who has become victims of stress triggered by the economic slowdown that has been raging for a year now.'  I thought that was quite silly - passing the buck on to 'economic slowdown'!!
• 'Concerns about the looming threat of layoffs, salaries that are either cut or delayed, and pressures to meet higher targets are conspiring to create a tempest of uncertainty that executives are finding difficult to cope with' ... These were always part of corporate life, right?
• For God's sake, pls don't blame HR. ( I am no HR guy!)
• The results are on expected lines : health problems, creating pressure at work & home, etc.
• If you go thru the comments on ET, most of them are on 'blame-game' too !
• The proverbial 'silver lining' according to the agency, PPC Worldwide, is 'corporate executives are taking professional help'! That is quite sad. We are going the way our counterparts in some of the 'developed markets' ( economically only )... visit psychologists.

The solutions lie else where. 

• We are capable of handling this holistically. 
• It is our INDIVIDUAL CHOICE. That is the first step, own up the responsibility. 
• Then, be aware just as I am affected, I am causing similar impact on people around me - at work, at home & beyond. 

Is it worth it ? Request your views...




Courtesy:
India Inc under 'stress': Fear of layoff, pay cut and work pressure pushing more employees into depression - The Economic Times

TEST DRIVE: The 2013 Nissan Pathfinder - Business Insider

Well compiled & well presented. Interesting read...

The Platinum model (almost $40K) has 13 Bose speaker system !
It also has a 360 degree view around the car
Easy Fill Tire Alert is another useful feature. 

TEST DRIVE: The 2013 Nissan Pathfinder - Business Insider

Exclusive and Elegant: the Panamera Platinum Edition

Glad to share .... for all Porche fans

Passion for Porche

Exclusive and Elegant: the Panamera Platinum Edition - Porsche Drive USA | view and share articles, news, images, videos, events

Festival Time Car Launches in India 2

One of the mostly awaited car launch was 'at the bottom of the pyramid', coming from the market leader, Maruti Suzuki.

Their Alto 800 is a model which has generated lot of interest and has quickly managed to get over 10K bookings. 

Maruti has gone ahead with a aggressive push for a petrol model, when the auto industry is in #dieselisation mode. But, they have assured a good mileage. This will have a CNG variant too. Interesting...

Developed entirely in India, with an investment of Rs 470 crore by Maruti Suzuki and its vendors, over 200 Maruti Suzuki engineers worked on the Alto 800 over the last four years. The new Alto 800 sports a fresh look, is more spacious and delivers 15% better efficiency than its predecessor, claims Maruti Suzuki.

Maruti has been losing market share for factors such as labour unrest, etc. This launch should help them gain the lost ground 

Festival Time Car Launches in India 1

Macro Level: Shradh (inauspicious) period comes to an end today. A spate of auto launches scheduled ahead of the festive season, from Dassera to Diwali. Industry volumes have been sliding down-hill this year. 
External factors, such as #dieslisation of auto industry, strike at Maruti plant, macro economic factors, etc. All car manufacturers are desperately looking for a spurt in demand during the festive season. RBI can play a catalytic role by reducing rates on 30th October !

With half the month lost to inauspicious, lot of catching up to do for auto dealers....

One of the first off the block is Ford Figo. 

• It claims over 100 modifications, including enhanced kinetic design
• Most of it cosmetic 
• This international best seller from Ford should improve its global presence in the small car segment through this best-seller.
• In India, Ford still seem to suffer from the perception of service levels, not world-class yet. An area they should focus too

Courtesy:
http://www.yourmoneysite.com/news/2012/oct/fords-new-figo-launched-priced-around-rs-385-lakh.html

A “Magic Bullet” for Healthcare Costs | LinkedIn

Here is an important thought from a doctor, that too from world-famous Cleveland Clinic:

• It is estimated that 75% of the $2.7 trillion the United States spends on healthcare annually goes to treat diseases that are almost entirely preventable
• Most were smokers, or overweight, or sedentary, or some combination of those three.

We have conveniently forgotten 'Health is Wealth', as we chase 'wealth', in the form of financial independence. But being truly wealthy means very healthy, else you are just rich, financially.

On health matters, 'Prevention is indeed better than cure'. It may come through 'apple a day...' or through other key ingredients of a healthy & wealthy lifestyle.

For a 'wealthy' life style, one need not be financially rich. 

Solutions for many serious problems are very simple. But then 'common sense & general knowledge' are not common/general!!  More importantly, we just don't translate the awareness to action.

Need to walk the talk !  Let me step out for my evening walk...  :)

Check out the original post from CEO, Cleveland Clinic:
A “Magic Bullet” for Healthcare Costs | LinkedIn

New Age Transformational Leadership

Interesting write up on Leadership in Indian context:

Drive transformation by abolishing class systems in organisational leadership

Read more: http://forbesindia.com/article/special/drive-transformation-by-abolishing-class-systems-in-organisational-leaderhip/33925/1#ixzz29LYJEcC4

Very true, there is acute shortage of not only 'new age' leadership, but 'all age' leaderships :)
We are still at an early phase of evolution in leadership, I guess. It is still so common to see people address others as 'Sir', in a society where we offer 'Namaste' to the Divinity in others !
We do not appreciate and encourage strong value-system. Rude aggression, lack of empathy, vocal, extrovert etc are the more prominent traits of leadership, across all sectors & levels.
Corporate sector needs to embrace the tenets of new age, transformational leadership. Business leaders & HR department need to play a big role. Business schools and our overall educational system should be receptive to the need for this change. 
A leadership that is essence of our true ethos and values, inspiring & contemporary.
Difficult, but surely achievable.

WHY THE HECK DO SO MANY PEOPLE WANT TO MOVE TO INDIA ?

Sharing with friends living abroad...

11 % surveyed showed preference to retire & live in India !!
Reasons: 'quality of life, being close to family, and social life'.
You bet!
I am still in the process of settling down... quite stressful :)
But worth it.  

Source:  http://www.businessinsider.com/hsbc-expat-survery-reveals-where-to-retire-2012-10

Blog Action Day 2012

My Blog Action Day ( BAD) 2011 was a simple post (but a complicated topic) on 'water'. 
http://mecarblog.blogspot.in/2010/10/bad-2011.html

Much water has gone into the sea since then, some areas severely flooded on the way, and some other places faced acute shortage. Nature's fury killed many in the flooded areas and many committed suicides in some of the areas facing acute shortages :( 

One way to look at it is 'Malthusian' way or the traditional Indian Karma theory, or scientifically sheer impact of climate change.

Two states in Indian Republic are fighting over water, Karnataka & Tamil Nadu !!

To summarise, people are fighting over water, at individual levels & beyond.

I am wondering what should I post for B-A-D 2012. Deliberately hyphenated. Somehow not comfortable with a negative connotation of the abbreviated 'BAD'. It should be 'GOOD' or 'HOPE' :)

This being a global event, don't want to restrict to any local issues. At a global level, what are the prominent issues? 

1. Credit crunch & all the resulting problems, esp unemployment. Politicians & administrators are unable to take affirmative actions to get economies back on track. Politicians are no longer synonymous with Leadership. We badly need mass leaders like Gandhi ji.Of course, we need to ensure we get the right leaders at all levels to represent us. We have a responsible role to play.
2. Impact of climate change. Like an ostrich, the world continue to try to avoid the responsibility
3. Population Vs Food produced. We just do not have enough food to feed 7 billion plus inhabitants of the earth. Some of the societies are getting affluent means more non-vegetarian food (with its impact on climate change), increasing wastage of food,  disparity of income distribution, etc. We just need to be more empathetic to people around us.
4. I can go on & on... But the biggest challenge our society is facing today is none of the above. Let us pause for a moment and try to think of the essence of all problems. The source of all problems. It is drop in morality in society - society comprises of us, individuals. The buck stops with each one of us... ME! 

 

Indian CV Market - Bharath Benz, Scania,

For Bharath Benz (Bh Bz, don't want to confuse with BB-Blackberry, for obvious reasons), it is their proverbial 'moment of truth'. 

After so many months' research, planning and execution, it is time to deliver the 'baby' ! And the CV industry is eagerly waiting! 

Across all product categories, we have a fancy for anything 'new'. Bh-Bz is new. Plus it is 'phoren' (foreign), at least its pedigree. How much of it is lost in "translation" to Indian market, needs to be seen. After all, there are people who drive CV's on simple kerosene too !!

TIMING: With the UPA-2 Government finally launching the much-awaited "Reforms-2", the share market sentiment picking up, monsoon deficit almost wiped out, quality of highways improving, more investments promised in infrastructure,  FDI in retail ( conditions of backward infra development), etc., Bh-Bz could not have asked for a better time to launch their premium vehicles.

Benz seem to carry some negative vibes, for their cars in India. Transporters can be very finicky in their expectations from Bh-Bz. And, that expectation management is going to be the single most important challenge for the new manufacturer. More so, as the entire range of commercial vehicles is being planned to Indian market.

The market is ready for such a brand. But, Bh-Bz need to ensure savings in cost and after sales service, as per their promise. 

Though they have tied up with few key banks/financiers, that may be a critical factor, which could tilt the market in either way. 

You can count of Tata & Leyland, most active in the mass-segment to take the fight to the den (of Bh-Bz), especially with their in-house financing options. 

CV Industry can expect some action in the coming months. If Bh-Bz focus on the basics, the wonderful community of transporters with embrace them with love & respect. Else.... the clock may continue to click on...

Bh-Bz may dream of 'toppling Tata & AL'. But from the industry perspective, we will be more keen on the value they bring to India's CV industry. 

Lot of truck operators refer to Tata trucks as 'Benz', being the old connection. The moot question is : 'How much of this Benz will be Bharath' ?

But Scannia plans to launch too : will invest Rs 250 cr (only), will set up facility in Bangalore ( the new Pune?) and assures better fuel efficiency!! Plans to enter both trucks & buses, starting from 2014-15 !
 

Biblio:  

1. Can BharatBenz topple Ashok Leyland and Tata Motors in the truck market? http://articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com/2012-09-30/news/34164589_1_bharatbenz-trucks-marc-llistosella-daimler-india-commercial-vehicles
2. Daimler to launch light duty trucks in India - Business Std        http://www.business-standard.com/india/news/daimler-india-to-launch-light-duty-trucks/189557/on
3. Scannia banks on fuel edge edge of trucks http://www.telegraphindia.com/1121001/jsp/business/story_16038102.jsp#.UHQMXCx26Fd

VOLUNTEER WORK FOR CORPORATE & CORPORATE EXECUTIVES

A good perspective from Richard Branson on 'volunteer work'. ( service/seva)

With the proposed mandatory allocation of 2% for CSR, this topic will gain more focus. ( more of it later).
As individual members of corporate, we owe a lot to society & hence need to plunge into individual CSR (iCSR)

In India, most of our service activities are conducted among our social groups ( religious/family/community), but outside the fellow-workers. That is an opportunity. Bonding/networking can be at a much higher level, when colleagues at work step out for volunteer work. And in India, we have so many opportunities 'to make a difference'...an orphanage, an old age home, go green, animal care, govt school, health-care, etc.

At an individual level, needless to add, volunteer work can me most fulfilling. Branson shares how potential entrepreneurs should look for areas for larger good :

If you’re thinking about launching a business, consider the new opportunities offered by some of the environmental challenges that your community faces—what would happen if you were to find a solution? If your company offered a scalable solution to a problem like a local water shortage or waste disposal issues, you might help your community and others.

Check out: 
http://www.livemint.com/Opinion/1nnC2699kOcu711N6zFUUP/Volunteer-work-the-bigger-picture.html 

T20 World Cup Chris Gayle all the way

All national teams ( except hosts & WI), are back to the comfort of their respective homes, from the heat & humidity of Sri Lanka. Hope they will take time to watch the finals, this evening.

Two teams, with contrasting styles, will play the finals ! 

• Sri Lanka will play a 'clinical' game, with their plan, strategy, tactics, intensity, passion, et al. 
• West Indies will play with more smiles, surely. 
• Only the latter makes you remember it is after all a sport! With Chris Gayle's dance steps, some more joining of late, more fun expected, esp if he gets going ! 
• Of course, he has been 'dancing' down the pitch to hit ball into the stands & giving song-dance-sequence filled dreams to opposition teams, esp their bowlers ! 
• In the semis, he played a responsible innings, taking his own time to settle down and make up the 'lost time' to catch up on the run-rate !! 
• Some of those IPL knocks would have definitely helped him to fine-tune his approach and gain confidence. 

Australia, England, South Africa, India, Pakistan, New Zealand are all back home ! 

• It was surely a silly idea to dilute the intensity of the tournament to include other fringe-teams. 

Something was surely wrong with Indian team. They just did not get the plot right. In terms of batting order ( esp Sehwag), bowling or toss-decision/captaincy. There will be lot of intellectual discussion on all that in our media, for some more time. 

Australia must be wondering what went wrong!! I feel they lost the plot in their match against Pakistan. Perhaps they were playing just to ensure their entry to the next phase and also perhaps would have conspired to keep India &South Africa out of the reckoning too. In the process WI got in, and just peaked at the right time, to thrash them in the semis. Karma theory for Aussies ?!

Don't be surprised if WI walk away with the trophy today. They will play with heart, as if nothing to lose. But SL will play under some pressure.