AT A GLANCE
Vivek Garady
Area of Practice:
OVERVIEW
With over six and half years at Srishti Manipal Institute of Art, Design, and Technology, I serve as the Head of Studies for both the Undergraduate Creative & Applied Computation course and the Postgraduate Design Computation course.
Information Technology Experience:
My career spans more than 22 years in Information Technology, where I have led key initiatives in the corporate sector. My expertise includes architecting IT applications, Enterprise Application Integration (EAI), managing projects in Information Systems, Customer Services, Manufacturing environments, and implementing web-based applications. I excel in bridging technology and business goals, leading and mentoring cross-functional teams to enhance productivity, and interfacing with various business units across global, multicultural settings. I am also an excellent communicator, adept at building strong client relationships and delivering professional presentations.
Major Achievements
• Led the Global E2E services team in defining KPI value trees and service records, and developed a unified dashboard for E2E services in a complex IT ecosystem.
• Played a key role in achieving CMMi-SW Maturity Level 5 certification for Schneider Electric India Pvt. Ltd., the first among Schneider entities.
• Stabilized Oracle ERP support services, reducing cost per ticket from USD 105 to USD 35 and achieving a 40% reduction in ticket volumes post-R12 upgrade, with zero unplanned downtime since April 2014.
• Established an Offshore Development Centre (ODC) for Sony Digital Audio Disc Corp. (Sony DADC), USA, and delivered IT services to Sony Global Solutions (SGS) with a high customer satisfaction rating of 4.8/5.
• Drove server consolidation and virtualization initiatives for cost savings and improved availability and continuity management.
Core Competencies
• End-to-end product development, service management, client relationship management, and strategy development, along with pre-sales expertise.
• Effective leader with strong interpersonal, communication, analytical, and relationship management skills.
EDUCATION
Degree in Engineering: Bachelor of Engineering in Electronics, 1991 to 1995 College: Rashtriya Vidyalaya College of Engineering (RVCE), Bangalore University: Bangalore University
WORK EXPERIENCE
01-Aug 2017 to Srishti Manipal Institute of Art, Design, and Technology
Present Designation: Faculty – Head of Studies: Creative & Applied Computation (CAC)
18-Jul 2011 to Schneider Electric India Pvt. Ltd., IPO – Global Delivery
14-Oct 2016 Designation: General Manager
Feb 2003 to Sony India Pvt. Ltd., Sony India Software Center
Feb 2010 Designation: Delivery Manager
Nov 2001 to ZenSutra Software Technologies Pvt. Ltd (Subsidiary of Citadon Inc, USA)
Feb 2003. Designation: Principal Software Engineer
Mar 2001 to Sunquest Information Systems Pvt. Ltd., ITPL Bangalore
Oct 2001 Designation: Senior Software Engineer
Jun 1999 to Visionplanner Inc., Bangalore (San Jose-based Startup Company)
Mar 2001. Designation: Project Leader
Mar 1998 to Axicon SEA Private Limited, Bangalore.
Jun1999 Designation: Software Engineer
Feb 1997 to Industry Uniserve PTY Ltd, Bangalore (Subsidiary of GE Multilin)
Mar 1998 Designation: Application Engineer
Sep 1995 to Kirloskar Systems Limited, Bangalore
Feb 1997 Designation: Project Engineer
INTEREST AREAS
My primary research interests lie at the intersection of computation, ecology, nature conservation, and law. Specifically, I am focused on:
Computation in Ecology: Exploring how computational techniques and models can be applied to ecological studies to better understand complex environmental systems. This includes the use of data analytics, machine learning, and simulation modeling to predict ecological patterns and processes, assess biodiversity, and monitor ecosystem health.
Nature Conservation: Utilizing computational tools to support conservation efforts. This involves developing algorithms and software to track wildlife populations, map habitats, and identify critical areas for conservation. My work aims to enhance the effectiveness of conservation strategies through precise data analysis and real-time monitoring.
Law and Policy: Investigating the role of computation in the development and enforcement of consumer laws and policies. This includes the use of digital tools to ensure compliance with the Ministry of Consumer Affairs. My research seeks to bridge the gap between technological advancements and legal mechanisms to promote more effective governance.
By combining these areas, my goal is to contribute to the sustainable management and protection of natural resources through innovative computational approaches and informed policy interventions.
CURRENT PRACTICE AT SRISHTI
I teach and facilitate Creative & Applied Computation, a comprehensive course covering essential topics such as the basics of programming, the internet, WWW, and browser architecture, as well as mastering JavaScript, HTML, and CSS. The curriculum includes full-stack coding, exploring various JavaScript libraries, database management, and cloud computing along with various SaaS services provided by cloud platforms. Additionally, the course covers Python programming, machine learning using Python, generative AI, and the intersection of computation with various domains. We utilize physical computing with Arduino and Raspberry Pi to build various projects. I also focus on the principles of design, emphasizing multidisciplinary, interdisciplinary, and transdisciplinary aspects of the field. This includes delving deep into research methodologies and the core principles of data analysis, such as descriptive, inferential, and predictive statistics, as well as data visualization.
TEACHING PORTFOLIO
Crafting a teaching portfolio focused on undergraduate and postgraduate programs in Creative and Applied Computation (UGPP) and Design Computation (PG) involves more than just compiling a list of courses taught. It’s about curating a narrative of educational innovation and fostering a dynamic learning environment where students not only acquire technical skills but also cultivate creativity and critical thinking.
In the undergraduate program, the emphasis lies on igniting students’ passion for creative exploration within the realm of computation. Through hands-on projects and interdisciplinary collaborations, students delve into the intersection of art, technology, and computation, harnessing tools like P5.js and swarm algorithms to bring their ideas to life in tangible digital forms. By nurturing a culture of experimentation and iteration, the UGPP curriculum equips students with the versatility and adaptability needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving technological landscape.
In the postgraduate program, Design Computation takes center stage, offering students a deeper dive into the application of computational methods in design practice. From parametric modeling to algorithmic design, students are challenged to push the boundaries of conventional design thinking and explore innovative approaches to problem-solving. Through a blend of theoretical exploration and practical application, students develop a nuanced understanding of how computation can augment and enhance the design process, ultimately empowering them to become leaders in the field of computational design.
Beyond the classroom, the teaching portfolio showcases a commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive learning environment, where diverse perspectives are celebrated and collaboration is encouraged. Whether through mentorship initiatives, guest lectures, or industry partnerships, the aim is to provide students with holistic learning experiences that prepare them not only for academic success but also for meaningful contributions to the broader community.
In essence, the teaching portfolio for UGPP Creative and Applied Computation and PG Design Computation amplifies the transformative power of education in shaping the next generation of creative thinkers, problem-solvers, and innovators in the ever-expanding landscape of computational design and beyond.
CREATIVE PRACTICE & OUTREACH
Creative practice in applied computation, like using P5.js, connects art and technology. With tools like P5.js, artists and programmers mix code and creativity easily, turning ideas into digital experiences. P5.js lets creators make amazing web experiences, from art installations to coding lessons, attracting audiences in new ways. Similarly, swarm algorithms help understand complex systems in robotics and urban planning.
This practice impacts more than just art. Using P5.js, we teach coding to students through fun projects, boosting creativity and critical thinking. Swarm algorithms also change industries like logistics, making routes and resources more efficient and sustainable.
Looking ahead, creative coding and swarm intelligence have endless potential. Advancements in AI will make these tools even better, leading to new interactive art and smart systems. Picture drones controlled by swarm algorithms for stunning aerial shows, or robots guided by AI and P5.js to help artists bring their ideas to life