The book Beyond the Boardroom: Practical Management Cases in Indian Context is a timely and valuable contribution to the field of management education and practice in India. As management educationis continuouslyevolving in a competitive environment, there is a growing need for resources that go beyond theoretical frameworks and provide real-world insights into decision-making, problem-solving, and leadership. This edited volume responds to that need by offering a comprehensive collection of 100 carefully selected and well-structured case studies drawn from the Indian business environment. By blending theory with practice, the book bridges the gap between classroom learning and the complex realities faced by managers and organisations in diverse industries.

At its core, the book recognises the importance of contextualising management knowledge. Much of management literature, historically, has been dominated by Western perspectives and examples. While global theories provide a strong foundation, management students and practitioners in India often struggle to connect them with the unique socio-cultural, economic, political, and legal environment of Indian businesses. It examines how Indian companies, both large corporations and emerging start-ups, navigate challenges and opportunities while responding to the local environment. Such an approach not only enhances the relevance of management education in India but also encourages learners to appreciate the nuances of decision-making in emerging economies.

The case studies cover a wide spectrum of management disciplines, ensuring that readers gain a holistic perspective. In the area of Marketing, the book spans both traditional marketing practices and digital marketing strategies, reflecting the transformation Indian businesses are undergoing in reaching consumers. In the field of Human Resource Management (HRM), the book explores cases on talent acquisition, workforce diversity, performance appraisal, and employee engagement. The Finance section includes case studies that shed light on capital structuring, investment decisions, risk management, and financial planning within Indian businesses. Strategic Management and Policy form another significant focus of the book. The cases under this domain explore mergers and acquisitions in the Indian corporate sector, the impact of globalization on domestic firms, and the strategies adopted by organisations to remain competitive in highly dynamic markets. The General Management and Operations section deals with the day-to-day challenges that managers encounter. Cases in this area cover topics such as supply chain disruptions, quality management, lean operations, project management, and customer relationship management.

One of the strengths of this book is its interdisciplinary nature. By offering cases that cut across multiple functions, it highlights the interconnectedness of business decisions. Through these interlinkages, the book encourages readers to adopt a holistic mindset and view management problems not in isolation but as part of an integrated system.

For educators, the book serves as an invaluable teaching aid. The case method of learning, which has long been recognised as an effective pedagogical tool, allows students to engage actively with real scenarios, debate alternative courses of action, and develop problem-solving skills. With 100 diverse cases, instructors have ample material to design course modules, assign group discussions, and encourage applied research. The richness and variety of cases ensure that the book can be used across undergraduate, postgraduate, and executive education programs.

For students, the book provides an opportunity to sharpen analytical, decision-making, and leadership skills. By situating cases within the Indian business environment, it fosters a sense of relevance and relatability. Students not only learn theoretical concepts but also witness how those concepts manifest in real organisations. This prepares them to become managers who can adapt theory to practice with confidence.

In conclusion, Beyond the Boardroom: Practical Management Cases in Indian Context is more than just a collection of case studies; it is a comprehensive learning resource that reflects the vibrancy and complexity of Indian business. By covering all major management disciplines—Marketing, Digital Marketing, HR, Finance, Strategic Management, General Management, and Operations—the book provides a 360-degree view of organisational challenges. For academicians, students, and practitioners alike, this book is an essential companion in the journey of bridging theory and practice in management education.

Editors

• Dr. Piali Haldar - Associate Professor, Department of Management, Brainware University, Kolkata, India
• Dr. Brijlal Malik - Assistant Professor, Symbiosis Skill and Professional University Pune, Maharashtra