Goa Tycoon - SEPTEMBER ISSUE 2023

Feature

Zunderdog

Founded in 2021 by Zubin Sousa, Zunderdog is a startup which provides tech solutions that help smaller retailers in simplifying their business operations and reducing their operational costs.

Graphic Design Agency Inked to Design

Editorial

Dear Readers,

Welcome to the September issue of Goa Tycoon, where we celebrate the indomitable spirit of entrepreneurship that thrives in the vibrant state of Goa.

This month, on our cover, we have featured Mr. Zubin Sousa, the visionary founder of "Zunderdog," a startup on a mission to empower small-time retailers. Zunderdog offers a suite of tools designed to assist small businesses in optimising their business operations and reducing their operating costs. Dive into the inside pages of our magazine to know more about this gamechanging startup.

This month’s issue also shines a spotlight on two remarkable women-led enterprises. Samiksha Powar, the creative force behind "Inked To Design," showcases her graphic design prowess, while Abigale Dsouza's "Abigale D Artistry" takes centre stage, highlighting her talent in hair styling and makeup artistry. These women exemplify the entrepreneurial spirit that drives Goa's business landscape forward.

We have also done a story on Bani Majik, a professional photographer hailing from Paryem town in Sattari. Through his two enterprises "Life of Bani" and "Say Cheese," Bani Majik offers exceptional photography and videography services.

Discover the magic behind his lens and the stories he tells through his art.

We also delve into an insightful article penned by Professor Rohit Prabhudesai, an esteemed Assistant Professor at the Goa Institute of Management, Sanquelim. He analyses the intriguing case of Go First Airlines going bankrupt and the invaluable lessons that businesses, both big and small, can learn from this experience.

In other news, the Startup and IT Promotion Cell, Government of Goa launched a monthlong initiative called "Goa Startup Yatra 2.0”  on the 4th of September. This initiative is aimed at nurturing and bolstering the state's burgeoning startup ecosystem. The program will encompass a series of entrepreneurship workshops scheduled to take place across several educational institutions in Goa. The primary objective of this initiative is to empower students with entrepreneurial aspirations, providing them with invaluable guidance, mentorship, and access to the resources necessary to transform their innovative concepts into successful, thriving ventures.

Also, the Goa Miles multi-modal app was launched last week at the hands of Goa CM Dr. Pramod Sawant. This groundbreaking app seamlessly integrates motorcycle pilots, auto rickshaws, buses, and taxis, all within a single platform. This development is set to redefine last-mile connectivity in Goa and will also serve as a shining model for other states across India.

Well, that's all I have for you for my desk this month. I hope you enjoy reading this month's issue of Goa Tycoon. Do share it with your friends all across the globe.

Until next month, cheers!

Warm regards,

Jessyl Fernandez Editor

01 ZunderDog

02 Abigale De Souza

03 Photographer Bani Majik

04 Inked to Design

05 EazyPark

06 Time To Pay Serious Attention To Business Strategy

07 Ratan Tata Aide Shantanu Naidu speaks at GIM

Introduction

Goa, the tiniest state on the western coast of India, boasts golden pristine beaches, palmfringed avenues, flavourful food, delicious Portuguese-influenced sweets, and warm, hospitable people. Also known as the Ibiza of India for its partying. A tropical paradise of flora and fauna, from the very famous 'Almi' (mushrooms) endemic to its forests, that grow only on the red mud anthills, to the solar prawns that are fished immediately after the monsoons, Goa is unique. Tourists are also attracted to Goa for its cultural heritage - from the famous old Portuguese churches like Se Cathedral in Old Goa, the 16th Century Safa Masjid in Ponda and Shree Mangesha Temple in Mardol, the legendary Arvalem or Pandava Caves where the Pandavas of the Mahabharat fame lived, to its two unique festivalsCarnival and Shigmo. Goa plays host to many festivals - the International Film Festival of India that promotes cinema, the Serendipity Art Festival, Sunburn Music Festival, The Grape Escapade to name a few. To showcase this varied heritage of culture, art, tradition, food, and people, in 2015 ItsGoa was born. The main aim was to make it the premier portal for all things Goa. We were able to showcase Goa like never before. Soon our blog-based website transcended the virtual space, with the ItsGoa magazine – a sought-after resource for visitors to Goa from countries like Norway, Germany, UK, USA, UAE, etc.

Editorial Team

Chief Editor

Jessyl Fernandez

Content Manager

Steve Antao

Sales & Marketing

Donald Fernandez

Graphics & Layout

Shashank Parab

Social Media Manager

Saviola Dias

For advertising queries: 9370502124 / 9209005127

ItsGoa Media Group

Nordic Intent HQ - Floor 3, PDA Colony, Porvorim, Goa 403521

Email : mail@itsgoa.com

Website: itsgoa.com

In a world dominated by big corporations with vast resources and cutting-edge technology, small businesses often struggle to compete and thrive. Recognising this disparity, Mr. Zubin Sousa founded Zunderdog, a startup with a vision to empower the backbone of the nation – small businesses. With a burning passion to level the playing field, Zubin embarked on a mission to bridge the technology gap between larger players

and local retailers that sustain 40% of India's population.

Empowering Small Businesses

Zunderdog was founded in 2021 with a clear purpose – to make advanced technology accessible and affordable for smaller retailers such as supermarkets, kirana stores, and restaurants.

Zubin being felicitated by the Goa Livelihood Forum during the inauguration of their Youth Enterprise Program at Goa Business School, Taleigao

The startup offers a comprehensive suite of tailored offerings and tools catering to various business types, simplifying operations, enhancing efficiency, and reducing operational costs. By providing costeffective solutions, Zunderdog guarantees better profits for supermarkets, kirana stores, and restaurants as quickly as the second month of using the provided tools. The startup firmly believes that technology should serve as a catalyst for growth and prosperity, breaking barriers rather than creating obstacles.

Response from the Public

The response from the public during the time when Zunderdog just started off was overwhelmingly positive and encouraging. People showed genuine interest in Zunderdog's innovative offerings, and the support from the local community and business owners boosted the startup's confidence. However, setting up the enterprise came with its share of challenges.

Zubin had to overcome doubts, financial risks, and skeptical voices. But he was determined to prove that Zunderdog was more than just a business; it was a mission to empower small businesses and make a positive impact in their lives.

Recognition and Achievements

Zunderdog's dedication to serving small businesses has not gone unnoticed. The startup has been recognised for its innovative approach and impact on the industry. Notably, Zunderdog was selected for the esteemed 'Leap to Unicorn' program, organised by IDFC Bank, CNBC TV18, and MoneyControl, showcasing its potential as one of the top upcoming startups in the country.

Moreover, the startup has benefited from the mentorship and insights provided by startup programs conducted by tech giants Microsoft and Google.

A kirana store owner using an application developed by Zunderdog

The mentorship programmes by Google and Microsoft were selection-based and were offered to only select startups, and Zunderdog was one of those few startups who made it to the list. These collaborations have enabled Zunderdog to gather valuable resources and strengthen its services to better support its clients.

The Founding Visionary: Zubin Sousa

Zubin Sousa, the founder of Zunderdog, holds a postgraduate degree in computers and boasts over 15 years of experience in the software industry. His professional journey includes working with prominent companies such as eBay, PayPal, FreshWorks, Moengage, TCS, and SBI. Throughout his career, Zubin contributed to remarkable projects, gaining diverse perspectives and insights from working with successful companies' founding teams.

Zubin's inspiration to start Zunderdog stemmed from witnessing the advantages of technology enjoyed by larger corporations while smaller businesses struggled to survive. He was deeply moved by the unwavering spirit and dedication of small business owners and felt a resolute sense of responsibility to empower and support them.

The Story Behind The Name ‘Zunderdog’

The name "Zunderdog" holds a powerful symbolism. "Zunder" is derived from the German word for "on fire," representing the startup's burning passion and determination to make a significant impact in the market.

"Underdog" signifies Zunderdog's commitment to supporting and championing small businesses, which are often underrepresented and face various challenges in the competitive landscape.

Assistance Received

from FiIRE

Zunderdog's growth was significantly propelled by the assistance of FiIRE, an incubation centre that nurtures startups in their early stages. Under the guidance of Mr. D.S. Prashant and the FiiRE team, Zubin experienced a transformative shift from an employee mindset to that of a confident founder. FiiRE provided invaluable mentorship, helping refine ideas and shape the startup's direction.

Future Plans

Zunderdog's future plans focus on driving transformative growth, expanding its platform's capabilities, and reaching more small businesses across the country. Furthermore, it is committed to making a social impact by supporting local communities and driving sustainability initiatives in alignment with its responsible and conscientious values.

For more information, contact Zunderdog on:

Phone: +91-9940285902

Product Enquiries: sales@zunderdog.com

Business Partnerships: partnerships@zunderdog.com.

Website: www.zunderdog.com

Mr. Zubin Sousa, Founder, Zunderdog

hair and make-up artist

Abigale De Souza

Based in St. Cruz in North Goa, Abigale De Souza is a hairstylist and makeup artist who provides hairstyling and make-up services for weddings, engagement parties and other special occasions.

Article by: Team ItsGoa

Images by: Abigale De Souza

In the bustling world of entrepreneurship, where passion meets creativity, Abigale De Souza stands out as a shining example of someone who followed her heart and turned her love for beauty into a thriving enterprise. As the founder and driving force behind her freelance makeup artist business, Abigale has redefined the concept of beauty by offering personalised, natural, and radiant makeovers that enhance her clients' confidence for every occasion.

A Blossoming Journey

Abigale's journey began in early 2020 when she took her first steps into the makeup industry, just before the world was hit by the COVID-19 pandemic. However, it wasn't until a few months later, in October, that she transitioned into fulltime work as restrictions began to ease. Based in Santa Cruz, Goa, Abigale's enterprise takes a unique approach compared to traditional brickand-mortar salons. She and her team bring their services directly to the client's location, ensuring convenience and comfort. This approach exemplifies her commitment to providing a tailored and personal experience to her clients.

A Personal Touch to Beauty

Abigale's venture thrives on enhancing her clients' natural beauty, making them feel confident and radiant for every special occasion. Her services, which include makeup, hairstyling, and draping, cater to a variety of events such as weddings, prewedding shoots, birthdays, and more. One of her distinctive features is her focus on natural and minimal makeovers, avoiding heavy makeup looks. Abigale's commitment to maintaining her clients' unique features while highlighting their best aspects sets her apart in the industry.

From Hospitality to Makeup Artistry

Before becoming a makeup artist, Abigale's background was in hospitality, travel, and tourism, holding a BBA degree in the field. Her experience in the hospitality industry equipped her with exceptional customer service skills and attention to detail, which she seamlessly integrates into her makeup artistry business.

Her journey began with a passion for hairstyling, which she nurtured from her school days. This passion, combined with her career transition, led her to embark on the path of a makeup artist.

Inspiration and Growth

The inspiration behind Abigale's enterprise stems from her love for hairstyling and a desire to offer a unique, client-focused experience. Her initial clients were delighted by her ability to deliver minimal, yet impactful looks, which led to a growing reputation and word-of-mouth referrals. Her core clientele primarily comprises individuals seeking makeup services for destination weddings, engagements, and special occasions in Goa.

Trending messy pony with pearl accents hairstyle work done by Abigale for a bride’s sangeet event

Overcoming Challenges and Looking Forward

Abigale faced many challenges when she just started her enterprise. Financial constraints and the process of building a client base presented hurdles. However, her dedication, perseverance, and the support of her family and close friends provided her with the motivation to overcome these challenges. Looking ahead, Abigale envisions expanding her enterprise by establishing a studio or academy, cultivating a loyal customer base, and undertaking bridal projects on a larger scale.

Words of Wisdom

Abigale's journey offers valuable insights to aspiring entrepreneurs. She encourages them to remain focused, celebrate even the smallest achievements, and enjoy the journey.

“Adaptation to new trends is crucial, but maintaining one's personal style and ethics is equally important”, she says. Abigale's message emphasises the dedication and hard work that entrepreneurship demands, while reminding entrepreneurs to prioritise self-care.

For all your hairstyling and make-up requirements, contact Abigale on:

WhatsApp: +91 77198 11779

You can also catch a glimpse of the amazing make-up and hairstyling work done by Abigale for clients on Instagram: @abigale_d_artistry

Timeless bridal makeup and hair inspiration by Abigale

Intricate bridal braid done by Abigale

Article by: Steve Antao

photographer

photography

In the vibrant and picturesque town of Parye, nestled in the heart of Sattari in North Goa, a passion ignited in the form of photography back in 2015. What started as a mere hobby has now blossomed into two thriving professional enterprises, bearing the names "Life of Bani" and "Say Cheese," under the creative direction of the talented Bani Majik. His commitment to capturing the essence of life's beautiful moments and turning them into timeless memories has led to the remarkable success of his photography businesses.

From Passion to Profession: The Evolution of Bani's Enterprises

The journey of Bani Majik in the world of photography began as an individual pursuit, driven by an innate passion for the art. His creative roots took hold at the CMYK Academy, where he honed his skills and laid the foundation for his artistic journey. After absorbing the principles of photography and refining his craft, Bani took a step further by joining Creative World Creations.

There, he worked alongside seasoned photographers, absorbing their wisdom and gaining practical insights that would shape his future.

Inspiration Behind Venturing Into Entrepreneurship

The inspiration for Bani to venture into entrepreneurship came from a deep desire to showcase his creative talents in a more personal and direct manner. He wanted to create a platform where his unique perspective and creative vision could shine, connecting with people on a more intimate level. This vision led to the birth of "Life of Bani" and "Say Cheese," two spaces where his photography could not only be appreciated but also associated with his identity.

Challenges Faced

Bani faced several CHALLENGES WHILE setting up his two ventures. Establishing a unique brand identity, attracting clients, and building public trust required

Bani Majik, Professional Photographer and Videographer

dedicated effort. Yet, Bani's determination, supported by fami y, friends, mentors, and co aborators, a owed him to overcome these hurd es and ay the groundwork for success

Services Offered

Bani's two photography enterprises, "Life of Bani" and "Say Cheese", offer an array of services tai ored to capturing the beauty of ife's most precious moments. hese inc ude

Portrait Photography: Bani's keen eye for detai and his abi ity to capture the uniqueness of each individua shine through in his portrait photography, be it fami y, group, or individua portraits

Event Photography: From weddings to corporate gatherings, Bani's event photography is a seam ess b end of candid moments and forma shots, capturing the essence of the occasion.

Photo Editing: Bani goes beyond the c ick of the camera, offering his expertise in professiona photo editing and retouching to enhance the na images

Corporate Headshots: Bani extends his creative flair to the corporate wor d, producing po ished and engaging corporate headshots for various p atforms

Maternity and Newborn Photography: His ens beautifu y captures the journey of pregnancy and the ear y days of a newborn's ife, creating heartwarming memories

Engagement and Couples Photography: With a knack for capturing ove stories, Bani offers engagement and coup es' photoshoots that ce ebrate each unique bond

eal Estate Photography: Bani's ens brings out the best in rea estate istings, presenting properties in their most appea ing ight

Videography: Adding a cinematic touch, Bani a so specia ises in videography, turning moments into captivating stories.

Photo-shoot done by Bani for a child’s birthday

Photoshoot done by Bani for TV actress Deepika Singh

Bani's Clientele and Vision

Bani's lens has captured the essence of various individuals, events, and brands. From well-known personalities like Shashaa Tirupati and Deepika Singh to national and international fashion pageants, Bani's portfolio is a testament to his versatility. He has collaborated with brands like Lokaso, Cam Catches, Creative World Creations, and Alpha Production, showcasing his skills in diverse contexts.

Future Plans

Looking ahead, Bani envisions a future where his services expand, his online presence strengthens, and his impact on the industry deepens. He plans to emphasise sustainability and environmental consciousness in his practices, contributing positively to both his business and the world around him.

A Message of Encouragement

For those aspiring to embark on their entrepreneurial journey, Bani Majik offers a piece of advice: “Think of yourself as a seedling with a dream. Nurture that dream with hard work, perseverance, and innovation. Embrace each step of growth and reach for the stars. With determination, passion, and a touch of creativity, success is well within reach”.

In a world where moments are fleeting, Bani Majik's photography business stands as a testament to the art of capturing life's beauty and preserving it for eternity. Through his lens, memories are woven into art, and moments become immortal.

For more information about Bani Majik and to avail of the various photography services he

Call/WhatsApp: 9158800079

Say Cheese Instagram Page: @say_che_e_se

Life of Bani Instagram Page: @life_of_bani

Bani’s Personal Instagram Page: @miles_with_bani www.itsgoa.com

Bani with several DJs he has done photoshoots for

Photoshoot done by Bani for playback singer Shashaa Tirupati

Photoshoot done by Bani for an Indian wedding

Article by: Steve Antao

Founded in 2020 by St. Cruz-based Samiksha Powar, "Inked to Design" is a graphic design enterprise that has defied odds, turning adversity into an opportunity to foster creativity and provide professional design solutions. The enterprise was born out of the creative vision of Samiksha, who saw the potential to transform her passion for design into a thriving business. Samiksha's journey began within the confines of her home in St. Cruz, Panjim, where she embarked on the path of graphic design during her final year of engineering studies.

Faced with the challenges posed by the pandemic, Samiksha recognised the power of harnessing her talents and channeling them into something meaningful.

Services Provided

From its modest inception, "Inked to Design" has blossomed into a platform that offers a diverse range of design services. With a fervent commitment to delivering excellence, the enterprise has cultivated a reputation for crafting compelling designs that communicate messages effectively. The venture specialises in logo design, branding and identity creation, print design, social media graphics, packaging design, digital marketing materials, and custom design solutions.

The Reason Behind Starting "Inked to Design"

Samiksha’s foray into the world of design and entrepreneurship was fuelled by her profound passion for creativity. The allure of innovation and creation, coupled with a longing for independence, drove her to take the leap and start "Inked to Design". Recognising the potential for both personal growth and financial success, she saw a big opportunity to fulfil a market need while making her mark in the industry.

The Creative Force Behind It All

Samiksha Powar is today an accomplished software engineer and an entrepreneurial powerhouse. She brings a fusion of technological prowess and design finesse to her work. Though she pursued a Bachelor of Engineering in Information Technology, her skills and vision extend far beyond traditional boundaries.

Public Response

In the early days, much like any new venture, there was a wave of excitement and support from friends, people, and the community. Samiksha welcomed and embraced this response, actively seeking to expand her network. To amplify brand

Samiksha Powar, Proprietor, Inked To Design

Samiksha with the GoWomania Emerging Entrepreneur Award 2021

awareness, she began leveraging social media platforms to capture the attention of people and spread the word about her brand. Throughout this period, she held onto three essential values: patience, an unwavering determination, and an insatiable drive to continually innovate and prove to the world that she too had the ability to make a significant impact. Furthermore, the first few clients she acquired were vocal advocates of her brand, spreading exceptionally positive reviews about the services provided by her enterprise.

Transforming Challenges into Triumphs

Starting "Inked to Design" came with its own set of challenges. Samiksha faced the task of building trust among customers as a newcomer in the field. The uncertainties that accompany entrepreneurship were met with unwavering determination. The juggling act between a full-time job and her business demanded impeccable time management. The path she embarked upon was solitary, at times leading to moments of isolation. Staying ahead of ever-evolving design trends required continuous upskilling and learning.

Yet, it was through these challenges that Samiksha found her strength. Supported by her family, friends, mentors, and collaborative partnerships, she navigated these obstacles with resilience. The initial wave of excitement and support from the community further fuelled her determination to innovate and make a lasting impact.

Her Major Clients

Samiksha's journey with Inked to Design began with a focus on empowering women entrepreneurs to establish their digital brand presence. Women entrepreneurs remain her top priority clients, propelling their brands’ growth and reputation. Additionally, she has provided design solutions for government bodies, NGOs, schools, restaurants, business owners, and various companies, creating icons, menus, logos, and lots more for them.

Accolades Received

Samiksha's entrepreneurial journey wasn't paved with conventional credentials; instead, she honed

her abilities through workshops, experiences, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Her dedication to her craft was acknowledged when she received the prestigious GoWomania Emerging Entrepreneur Award in 2021 from the Women Entrepreneur’s Business Network. Furthermore, she was featured in the list of “50 Women Entrepreneurs from Goa” in the pages of a magazine called Boss Lady 2023. She also reached the finalist stage in the Women Starters category of HerRising 2021, a prominent virtual conference and career fair in India.

Samiksha’s story isn't confined to awards and accolades; it's woven into the fabric of community engagement and social upliftment. Samiksha has mentored over 500 graphic design enthusiasts, nurturing aspirations for a brighter design landscape. Her commitment to personal and professional growth is exemplified by her participation in the Sri Satya Sai National Leadership Program in 2021.

Samiksha HOLDING A COPY OF THE MAGAZINE SHE WAS featured in

A Vision for the Future

Looking ahead, "Inked to Design" envisions growth that goes beyond business expansion. Samiksha plans to continue leveraging creativity for social change. With thought-provoking campaigns, she aims to address pressing issues and amplify social messages through design.

Her advice to aspiring entrepreneurs resonates deeply: "Chase your dreams with the fierceness of a lion and the curiosity of a kitten. Embrace challenges as opportunities to learn and grow, and remember that even the tiniest spark of an idea can ignite something extraordinary."

"Inked to Design" is more than a graphic design enterprise; it's a testament to the power of creativity, resilience, and the unyielding spirit of entrepreneurship. Samiksha Powar's journey from engineering studies to entrepreneurial success showcases the remarkable impact that one individual can make when they follow their passion and harness their talents.

To know more about Inked to Design and to avail of the amazing design solutions they offer, contact Samiksha on:

WhatsApp: +91 94233 13416

Instagram: @inkedtodesign

LinkedIn: https://in.linkedin.com/in/samikshapowar

Samiksha at Cafe Rasa, a co-working space in Panjim

Mementos received by Samiksha at a National Leadership Program held in 2021

Article by: Steve Antao

Images by: EazyPark

In the bustling urban landscapes of India, where finding a parking spot is often a daily challenge, two visionary minds, Kumardip Chakraborty and Vaibhav Poonekar embarked on a journey to transform this persistent inconvenience into a seamlessly managed experience. Their creation, EazyPark, is a pioneering mobile app-based smart parking solution, which has emerged as a beacon of hope for millions of vehicle owners and commuters grappling with the chaotic world of parking.

A Technological Oasis in Parking Management

EazyPark, which is an ingenious SaaS (Software as a Service) platform, has disrupted the traditional parking industry by offering a comprehensive digital solution. At its heart, it serves as an aggregator system, bridging the gap between parking lot owners and the modern digital era. Within a matter of hours, any parking business can transition into the digital realm, a feat that would have seemed improbable not too long ago.

The magic of EazyPark lies in its mobile application, which empowers car owners and commuters with a range of tools to manage their parking needs efficiently. One can easily pre-book parking spaces, instantly check live availability, and secure a spot on a daily, weekly, or monthly basis, all through the power of their fingertips.

A Suite of Innovations

The services and products offered by EazyPark are a testament to the founders' commitment to solving parking problems with ingenuity. The company boasts an array of cutting-edge offerings

Digital Parking Management System: A comprehensive system that automates and streamlines parking operations, saving time and reducing hassles

Monthly Parking Pass: Offering the convenience of regular parking through a subscription model

Car Num er Plate Reader-Based Parking: Leveraging advanced technology to identify vehicles and simplify the parking process

RFID Based Scanning & Payments: A secure and efficient payment method that enhances user experience

QR-Code Scanner-Based Parking: Seamlessly integrates QR codes for quick and effortless parking access

ANPR Parking Cameras & Boom Barrier Gates: Employing Automated Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) technology for enhanced security and control.

Kumardip Chakraborty (Founder, EazyPark)

Vaibhav Poonekar (Co-Founder, EazyPark)

Founders with a Purpose

Behind the remarkable success of EazyPark are its founders, Kumardip and Vaibhav. Kumardip brings over 16 years of experience in IT and product management, having served in prestigious companies like Infosys, MasterCard, and Western Union. Vaibhav, on the other hand, boasts 19+ years of technical expertise, with a background in firms such as TickerPlant and UAE Exchange. The duo's shared experiences, combined with their passion for solving real-world problems, ignited the spark for EazyPark.

From Curiosity to Innovation

EazyPark's origins can be traced back to the casual conversations between Kumardip and Vaibhav. Faced with the recurring frustration of parking woes in cities like Kolkata and Mumbai, their discussions grew more fervent. The idea crystallised during their time in Abu Dhabi, where their combined backgrounds in product management and technical architecture converged to give birth to EazyPark.

The name itself, 'EazyPark,' reflects their dedication to simplifying the parking experience, epitomising the app's mission: the easiest way to find and park your vehicle.

Embracing Public Demand

The resounding public response to EazyPark underscores the pressing need for innovative  parking solutions. A whopping 95% of respondents in surveys conducted across major Indian cities expressed a strong desire for the mobile app-based parking solution. This overwhelming demand solidifies EazyPark's relevance and potential to transform the parking landscape in India.

The Future of EazyPark

EazyPark is more than just a company; it envisions becoming synonymous with parking in India. The founders' aspiration to tap into the colossal parking industry, valued at around 50,000 Crore rupees, exemplifies their ambition. The company's ultimate goal is to address core parking challenges and optimise parking space utilisation, contributing to the creation of smart cities that thrive on efficiency and technology.

A Journey Worth Remembering

The journey of EazyPark is a testament to the rewards and challenges of entrepreneurship. The founders' advice resonates deeply with aspiring entrepreneurs: “the path may not be easy or glamorous, but it offers unparalleled learning opportunities. Imperfection is a natural part of the

process, and success is often the result of relentless iteration and determination”.

As EazyPark continues to shape the future of parking management in India, it stands as a beacon of innovation, convenience, and progress. With its transformative services and visionary leadership, EazyPark paves the way for a future where parking is no longer a hassle, but a seamless experience that enhances the urban lifestyle.

The

EazyPark aPP IS AVAILABLE FOR DOWNLOAD ON Google Play Store.

For business enquires, contact EazyPark:

Contact Number: 9925471499

Email: connect@eazypark.in

Website: www.eazypark.in

www.itsgoa.com

EazyPark team at Rani Kamlapati Railway Station for on-boarding onto its application

EazyPark Co-Founder Vaibhav Poonekar at the StartUp20 event held in Goa.

business

Time to pay serious attention to business strategy

Professor Rohit Prabhudesai, Assistant Professor at GIM, Sanquelim, reflects on the case of Go First Airlines going bankrupt and the lessons that other businesses can learn from it.

Article by: Prof. Rohit Prabhudesai Image Credit: FreePik

www.itsgoa.com

Go First Airlines, which employed around 7000 people, filed for bankruptcy in May, the second after Jet Airways in recent times. The airline pointed fingers at the Pratt & Whitney engines in its Airbus aircrafts, faults in which, it said, had caused half of its fleet to be grounded this year. While the allegations may or may not carry merit, Go First certainly did not seem to be on a strong footing even before this year began. Its profits after tax had progressively shrunk since Financial Year (FY) 2017 and it had posted losses since FY 2020. The engine controversy seemed to have only exacerbated a crisis rather than initiating it.

To be fair to airlines in the country, across the globe, the profitability in the airline industry has always been on the lower side. Michael Porter, the father of Business Strategy, wrote an insightful article in Harvard Business Review in 2008, in which he did an analysis of over 30 industries in the United States to determine the average profitability for each.

Guess which one ranked the lowest? Airlines. The industries with highest returns, he noted, were providing more than six times the returns than the airline industry. Does that mean, however, that the picture is all gloom and doom and that airlines are forever doomed to accept the fate that profitability is a distant dream? Not really. In the US itself, Southwest Airlines did keep posting profits year-onyear (for 48 years, that too). How?

The answer lies in having a sound strategy. The airline industry suffers primarily because of a lack of switching cost. For example, if I flew with Indigo from Goa to Mumbai today, there is nothing that stops me from switching to SpiceJet tomorrow if I see a better deal the next time I am planning to fly. Thus, the buyers pit one competitor against another and essentially ensure that they extract maximum value, while the revenues continually get split up as none consistently caters to any buyer. Business strategy is all about recognizing these underlying factors and responding to/nullifying them.

A key factor in the buyer decision process in this case is price. If an airline can keep prices lower than competitors consistently, they can create a switching cost for buyers as they have no option but to choose that airline should they want the lowest price. Price need not always be the only factor however. A certain segment of buyers also look for service, for example, and they could be catered to also by an airline.

Each airline, thus, has to occupy a unique niche for itself. Trying to straddle across multiple positions, however, is dangerous as they require contradictory actions to execute (e.g. to keep prices low, service may have to be compromised and vice-versa). It is all about taking up one strategic position, tailoring your actions to that position, and foregoing the other alluring positions which may compromise your current one. The lowest price position (consequence of keeping costs lowest in the industry so referred to as low cost) which Go First attempted to wrestle, can only accommodate one player, the one that can keep the costs lowest in the industry. Rest must choose some other plank on which to compete.

Go First’s operating costs as a percentage of sales were never lower than Indigo’s for any of the last ten financial years. Indigo seems to have caught hold of this position well (though it, too, has struggled due to strategic reasons in recent times) and while many others try to wrestle it away, it’s a difficult proposition unless you exclusively tailor all activities to a single-minded pursuit of lowering costs as much as possible (while adhering to all legal regulations, of course). Go First did put a serious attempt at wrestling away the position in recent times from Indigo when it changed its name to the current one. However, it is easier said than done and requires consistent actions. Unless airlines recognize this fact of strategic positioning and the unforgiving nature of the industry in which they compete, more might be following the Go First route.

*Data from CMIE Prowess.

About the Author: Professor Rohit Prabhudesai serves as Assistant Professor and Program Chair (PGDM-PT & Online) at Goa Institute of Management (GIM).

Professor Rohit Prabhudesai

Article

The two major rules for creating a personal brand are honesty and sincerity with oneself, according to Shantanu Naidu, a 30-year-old entrepreneur and general manager to the office of Ratan Tata.

Naidu, one of the youngest managers in the Tata group of companies, also offered insight into the contrasting personalities of his immediate boss, Ratan Tata, and tech-billionaire Elon Musk, to explain how strong personal brands evolve over time.

“A personal brand is basically what people think of when they think of you when you are not in your sight. Whatever the answer to that is, that’s your personal brand. Do not mistake it with reputation. Reputation is a part of a personal brand. It is organic, it happens all by itself,” Naidu said at ‘The Ribandar Talks Series 2.0’, an event organised by Goa Institute of Management’s ‘Aarohan – The Leadership Interaction Club’ earlier this month.

“Tata is associated with humility, charity, trust, empire... constant innovation. When it comes to all of these brands they have built, subconsciously these are the words which come to mind when we think of any of them,” he said.

“Elon Musk is always doing something out of whack, which is innovative. The key which ties all of them together, is consistency and that is the first form of personal branding,” Naidu further said.

Naidu, who is also known for his other ventures, like ‘Goodfellows’, which addresses the phenomenon of loneliness and companionship among senior

citizens and ‘Motopaws’, an NGO committed to the welfare of stray dogs, conducted an elaborate discussion on issues related to contemporary concepts of personal branding and adaptability with students of the GIM club.

Naidu rose from the ranks of a design engineer at Tata Elxsi, a Tata Group subsidiary, and has penned a memoir ‘I Came Upon a Lighthouse’ offering insights on his collaboration with Ratan Tata from personal experience.

He elaborated on the pivotal importance of personal branding, particularly in the context of the widespread influence of social media, but added that a personal brand has to resonate with the person himself from deep within.

“You really have to look inwards and self-analyse what I am really good at, that can be added to a personal brand. And it’s okay if it changes in the future. One of the most difficult things to do is find out about good things in ourselves that we believe in,” he said.

Naidu, while interacting with students, stressed on the need for not hiding away failure from one’s brand identity.

“If failure has been a significant part of your journey, absolutely highlight it. I try and talk about my failures. As a public community of youngsters, I think we should absolutely talk about our failures, because we are only sharing our highlight reels, highlight reels and highlight reels…” he said.

Students at GIM, Ribandar listening to Shantanu Naidu speaking at the event.