The PGDM Department at Jagan Institute of Management Studies (JIMS), Rohini organized an enriching alumni interaction session on “Digital Transformation: Technology, Cost Optimization, and Global Retail Practices” for management students, reinforcing the institute’s focus on academic–industry engagement and experiential learning.
The session was delivered by Mr. Karan Lakhina, Track Lead – Software Asset Management & Procurement at HCL Technologies, Sweden, and a distinguished alumnus of JIMS (PGDM 2011–2013). Drawing from his extensive global industry exposure, Mr. Lakhina shared valuable insights into digital transformation, enterprise technologies, and contemporary retail operations. The session was conducted virtually, as Mr. Lakhina is currently based in Gothenburg, Sweden, enabling students to gain international industry exposure in real time.
Mr. Lakhina began the session by explaining the evolving concept of digital transformation and its growing relevance across retail and enterprise ecosystems. He discussed how organizations leverage enterprise platforms, automation tools, data-driven systems, and Software Asset Management (SAM) to streamline operations, enhance efficiency, and support informed decision-making. Special emphasis was laid on how structured and strategic technology adoption enables cost optimization, compliance, and operational excellence.
The session further explored the role of digital tools in managing software lifecycles, optimizing licensing costs, and strengthening governance frameworks within large organizations. Through real-world examples, Mr. Lakhina demonstrated how effective use of technology directly contributes to value creation, risk mitigation, and long-term competitiveness, particularly in the global retail environment.
A key highlight of the session was the discussion on work culture differences between India and international markets. Mr. Lakhina compared professional expectations, leadership styles, accountability standards, and collaboration practices, offering students a broader global perspective on corporate functioning and management practices.
Adding a personal and engaging touch to the virtual interaction, Mr. Lakhina also shared live visuals from Gothenburg, showing students snow-covered lanes outside his workplace, which gave them a firsthand glimpse into international work environments and climatic conditions.
Through interactive discussions and industry-driven examples, students gained meaningful insights into how digital transformation, technology integration, and global work practices are shaping the future of retail and enterprise management.
Key Takeaways
- Understanding digital transformation across multiple technologies and enterprise systems
- Insights into the role of Software Asset Management and digital tools in retail operations
- Learning how technology supports cost optimization, compliance, and efficiency
- Exposure to real-world applications of digital transformation in global organizations
- Understanding work culture differences between India and international markets
- Gaining a global perspective on modern management and leadership practices
The session successfully bridged academic learning with real-world industry exposure, reflecting JIMS Rohini’s commitment to developing future-ready management professionals equipped with strong technological awareness and global business insights.