IN THIS ISSUEIssue #3, Oct 2015

FROM THE EDITOR IN CHIEF Page 4

THINK TANK Page 6

CONTRIBUTORS Page 8

COlUMNS

lEADING THE wAy! Page 10

IT’S BEEN A yEAR Page 13

RESPECTING TIME Page 14

TRENDlINES

Self-motivation at work Page 16

THE KEF GIRl Page 18

ENCOURAGING ExPATS Page 20

FEATURES

DIGITAl PRESENCE OF KEF HOlDINGS Page 21

wINGS TO My DREAMS Page 22

integrated village development Page 24

SKIllING THE POOR Page 30

lOOKING BACK Page 32

REGUlAR FEATURES

global Suppy chain - indian perSpective Page 38

AlUMINIUM GlAzING FACTORy Page 42

PROjECT DOCUMENT CONTROl Page 44

jOINERy SOlUTIONS Page 47

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lEADING THE wAy!

IT’S BEEN A yEAR

wINGS TO My DREAMS

AlUMINIUM GlAzING FACTORy

4 | KEF Chronicles

FROM THE EDITOR IN CHIEFThey say that the difference between success and failure is a great team.

And what’s more of a challenge than forming a great team is having a

cohesive one. So many factors play a role in making up a productive,

cohesive team. These include clear purpose, collaboration, listening,

open communication, shared leadership, consensus decisions, and working

towards a common goal.

Over the past year I am proud to say we at KEF have assembled such a

team from far and wide. In the truly multicultural ecosystem that is KEF,

we have colleagues from Germany, Greece, India, Ireland, Scotland, the

Philippines, Portugal and many more countries. One of the main reasons I

believe we are able to be successful, is because one thing drives the team’s

cohesiveness and that is passion.

We have dedicated this issue of our newsmagazine to that very passion.

You will hear from a concrete engineer, an HR specialist, a social worker,

a document controller, an architect and even an intern. What unites

them, more than the excellence they bring to our organisation is the

spirit with which they do it.

We are proud to call them our KEF family and I hope you enjoy the insights

into their lives and professions.

Enjoy the issue.

Shabana Faizal

Oct’15 | 5

THINK TANKBuilding a world-class organisation is as much about who you employ as it

is about what you do. After all a company is a group of people that are gathered together to create a product or service. So depending upon how talented, passionate and hardworking that group is, and the degree to which they’re focused obsessively towards a common goal, that will determine the success of the company.

With less than 3 months left in 2015, the past year has proven just how accurate this is at KEF. As we near completion on KEF Infra One, our fully integrated facility for off-site construction in Krishnagiri, Tamil Nadu and as we handover our first project, the Yenepoya Apartments, the KEF Infra team has been challenged as a team on countless occasions. I’m proud to say that the challenges have been met with unwavering focus and dedication from a team that treats this company as its own.

From the document controllers to the pre-cast erectors to the project managers and the GM, each KEF employee shares the same vision – “Together, we make a difference to people and societies by improving their quality of life”.

Amidst a complex and unpredictable geopolitical environment and a seemingly slowing global economy, in part due to falling oil prices, India’s recent policy measures defined by the Modi Government such as its “Smart cities”, “make in india” and “a house for every indian”, hold promise to ignite growth in the years to come. That is why we have aligned our Vision 2020 in accordance with this growth – 3 more industrial parks around India and a fully automated, modular construction facility is due to open its doors in Dubai, UAE in mid-2016.

While we are investing substantially to sustain our growth in the years to come, we continue to focus on delivering long-term value to our clients and partners. And we do that by bringing together technology and the right talent together. From our partnership with Europe’s foremost structural design company and the world’s most advanced robotics and automation company, to our work with the acclaimed architect - Hafeez Contractor, we are at the cutting edge.

There is nowhere else to be.

THINK TANK

6 | KEF Chronicles

Faizal E Kottikollon

Oct’15 | 7

ajikumar Sankarapillai Document Controller - KEF Infra

Mamta Rawat Talent Acquisition Executive - KEF Infra

Santhanam r Production Manager - KEF Infra

andre dienst General Manager - KEF Infra

manish ladkani Procurement Executive - KEF Infra

farzana kazemi Chartered FCIPD, PGDip HRD - Head of Human Resources and Administration - KEF HOLDINGS

naveen kumar k S Principal, BA ITI Thumbay

THOUGHTS FROM

CONTRIBUTORS

8 | KEF Chronicles

devika Student, GVHSS, Nadakkavu

prabu loganathan Production Engineer - KEF Infra

dr. Joseph Sebastian MSW, PhD - Head, Faizal & Shabana Foundation

roshan John Programme Officer, Faizal & Shabana Foundation

Shashank Srinivasan Digital Marketing Executive - KEF Infra

madhurima masoom Graduate Engineer Trainee - KEF Infra

ruben boas Concept Architect - KEF Infra

Oct’15 | 9

OFF-SITE MANUFACTURING KEF INFRA lEAdS THE wAy!

Andre Dienst

Applying automobile industry methodology to buildings in a truly holistic manner

lEADING THE wAy

All of us have heard about “Off-site Manufacturing”, right? Everybody understands the benefits and nobody would

come to the idea to ask the local mechanic to build a car or the electrician in the neighbourhood to construct an electric stove but strangely when it comes to constructing houses or even bigger buildings most of us fall back into millennia old patterns and ask the local builder or architect to do his magic.

So why are we so modern in many ways and once it comes to housing or buildings we follow the old fashioned ways? Is there nothing out there to improve on that and give us the quality and peace of mind that we have when buying a car or even the electric stove for our kitchen? Nothing that provides the confidence that we have in famous car or kitchen appliance brands?

Yes there is – we at KEF, call it KEF Infra.

Following the grand vision of KEF Holdings’ founder Mr. Faizal E Kottikollon we are setting up the largest facility for off-site manufacturing on the planet - in Krishnagiri, Tamil Nadu, India.

Here we combine all the trades that are needed for true quality construction and bring them together in clean industrial unit environment. At KEF Infra we are the first to implement the automobile industry methodology to buildings in a truly holistic manner.

10 | KEF Chronicles

Graphic ConcreteTM that brings ideas to life

State-of-the-art Joinery and Fit-out

World’s largest readymade Pre-fabricated Bathroom Factory

Best-in-class Aluminum and Glazing

In our portfolio of manufacturing units, we have Precast Concrete Elements, Glazing and Window manufacturing, wooden products manufacturing like doors, cabinets and more, modular bathrooms and kitchens, Façade production, natural and artificial Stone Processing and the world’s first wall assembly line. Of course we also do the complete design and engineering for all the products and the combinations in-house, so once the customer - who may be you dear reader – entrust KEF Infra with your project, you have one and one only partner who will carry out your project from start to finish, meaning from breaking the ground until handing over the keys to you. All of this in less than 50% of the time traditional construction takes and with a quality that goes far beyond what your local builder and his associates will be able to deliver!

By applying cutting-edge technology in all our units we are able to manufacture at the highest possible level of quality and efficiency and thereby produce and install on rates that are competitive with your local builder – just imagine what a car would cost - not to talk about quality and time - if your trusted mechanic would build it from scratch.

In the same way that Henry Ford revolutionized the automobile industry KEF will change the building industry – and we are starting in India!

World’s largest facility for off-site manufacturing on the planet - in Krishnagiri, Tamil Nadu, India

Oct’15 | 11

India today is in need of around 20 million houses in urban areas, more than 1 million government schools need constructional upgrades or complete renewal, 3.6 million hospital beds need to be provided over the next 20 years and much more, but the building industry is still relying on traditional methods of construction. The average time needed for constructing a family home is around 1 year, requires approximately 15 workers at any given point in time and generates around 20% wastage of all materials used during the process – what a waste of precious resources! At KEF Infra, we reduce the construction time by 50 to 75% with approximately only 20% of the man-hours and literally no waste.

In 2014 the World Bank entrusted McKinsey Global Institute MGI with a study under the Title “A blueprint for addressing the global affordable housing challenge”. It states that by 2025 about 440 million urban households around the world - at least 1.6 billion people - would occupy crowded, inadequate, and unsafe housing - which means these humans do not have an appropriate shelter to live in. One possible solution to the problem is shown in McKinsey’s report as “Provision of industrially manufactured precast structures” which forms the basis of the KEF Infra model but we go the next step, or better the next leap by implementing all other trades into our off-site manufacturing model and thereby improving not only the situation for the needy for example in Governmental housing projects but also in schools, hospitals and any other kind of building which can be built much better and faster with KEF Infra’s technology.

At the same time we at KEF improve the economic situation of the local population by upscaling their occupational situation. Especially in Asian lower income groups traditionally the parent passes on his or her skills to the child who then tries to make a living out of it – just like the parent did. At KEF Infra, we train and upgrade our workforce in our state-of-the-art facilities not only at the workplace but also in physical education and English skills, nutrition and health classes to improve the society as a whole.

So, putting all of this together KEF Infra will change not only the construction industry in India but also will have a positive effect on the society as a whole.

During the next issues of the KEF Chronicles I will introduce you to the different products we are manufacturing and the state-of-the-art technology we are implementing.

IN THE NExT 20 yEARS

INDIA NEEDS

20 million houses in urban areas

3.6 million hospital beds

12 | KEF Chronicles

IT’S BEEN A yEAR!

Roshan John

We were celebrating Onam at Nadakkavu School and it was buzzing with energy! Oh yes and Maveli

(King Mahabali) was visiting us. Our children were dressed in beautiful attires and the teachers in Onam sarees. I still remember the day I entered the gates of Nadakkavu School in May 2014 for my interview and I was amazed. A government school and so beautiful with such perfect ambience and I wanted to be part of this.

I started working with the Foundation as the Programme Officer from June 2014 and was stationed at Nadakkavu School. Every day I would interact with the students and be reminded of my childhood. The funny jokes, the bunking of class and running after teachers. The smiles on the faces of these children give me the energy and reason to be here.

One year at Nadakkavu and I have so many experiences to share. The confidence of the students, their energy, their acceptance and love keep me marvelled. I am reminded of an incident where a child was accused of stealing. I spoke to her and said “admit if you have done it and never repeat it and move on”. She came to me later and said, “Would you still like me the same way if I tell you that I did it”. I was in tears myself and I said I will forget this incident right now. I was moved by the way all of us influence the lives of these little ones. We are their role models and they learn from us.

I wanted to be a social worker to be able to touch lives and here my life has been touched by the 2400 girls at Nadakkavu School. I consider it as a privilege to be part of the Foundation and especially this great endeavour.

IT’S BEEN A yEAR

Oct’15 | 13

Farzana Kazemi

For most people, time is least considered, worst managed and yet it is the most valued resource we have; with

huge implications to business if not managed properly. I am frequently asked about how we can manage time better, where so much has to be completed, so quickly, in such a little time and that too without losing focus of the bigger picture?

Time management is not so complicated and it does not have to be. It’s all about prioritising what is important and what is urgent and it’s usually a symptom of overconfidence, where you begin to over promise and under deliver. Time is money, because the sooner you deliver a result, the sooner you can make a profitable business. There are of course limitations, as there are after all only 24 hours in a day, so planning and managing time is critical.

High achievers manage their time well using time management

RESPECTING TIME

tools where the focus is on results rather than task based activities. Being busy is not the same as being effective.

Time management is about planning and organising activities with priority versus importance. You could easily have tasks that are priority but may not necessarily be important, on the other hand you could have tasks that are importance but not priority. The key is to get the important results achieved in the order of priority.

There are many advantages of good time management, including greater productivity and efficiency, a better professional reputation, less stress and a better work- life balance. If however, time is not managed properly, the result will be poor quality output, missed deadlines, inefficiency, reputation for not delivering on time, higher levels of stress, lack of clarity & focus and of course a cost to the company.

RESPECTING TIME

14 | KEF Chronicles

HErE arE my top 15 tIps on managIng tImE

plan 20 minutes at the beginning of the day every day, this could be a simple to-do list and scheduling in your phone calls, meetings and

appointments in your calendar or diary.use simple tools such as action plans and schedules to prioritise. these days with modern technology, you can sync your calendar with your mail on your smart phone so you have your to-do list and calendar electronically on the go too!

at the end of the day review your to-do list for that day and

hopefully if all has gone well, tick off everything on your list.

when you make a list of priorities, complete the most important one

first, where possible.

learn to say ‘no’. its good to be liked and appreciated for being a

‘yeS’ person, but be it at your peril. if you take on too much, you could

be setting yourself up to fail.

a good night sleep, frequent breaks, healthy diet and exercise, will make sure you are alert, fresh and focused, which means more

productivity.

Start early on tasks and don’t leave them to the last minute. devote

your 100% attention to the task at hand and don’t get distracted.

give each task a time limit, rather than saying, i will stay till i finish this. Say, i will

try my best to finish this in the next 3 hours.

don’t rush from one task to another, leave a buffer in between, such as a refreshment break, this way you have time to breathe and tick off the tasks completed and then get re-energised

and focused on the next task at hand.if your task list is very long, don’t look at it in its

entirety, for example if a project is 3 months long and you have 60 tasks to do, to complete the

project, break the task list into segments. it could be daily, weekly or monthly tasks which

will make your list smaller and less daunting. one step at a time is the way to do it.

when you have conflicting priorities, acknowledge and re-prioritise, perhaps even discuss with your manager, to assess which task needs to be completed first and ask for

inputs. this means you are considerate of the link between your managers priorities and your own, it does not mean that you don’t

know how to prioritise.

use technology to your advantage, use task management tools, create folders, set rules for emails, using

subject titles in emails, use flags for priority emails etc.

if you work in an open plan office and find it difficult to

concentrate, put some earphones to block the noise or even listen

to quiet calming music.

if you are a manager - delegate! delegation can achieve results faster,

give exposure to your subordinates and an opportunity for them to learn too. however, please be careful you don’t

over use this either.

and finally enjoy your work – enjoy what you do and celebrate the small achievements leading up to the big

achievements! happy people are definitely more productive people!

Oct’15 | 15

SELF-MOTIVATION AT wORK

Mamta Rawat

Motivation, that’s what makes you the right talent for your organisation and keeps you going forward. You get

motivated either by your personal life or professional one. That’s how it plays a necessary part in engaging with the job and the company which further makes the partnership longer as both the employee & employer are benefited from each other.

“Don’t take rest after your first victory, because if you fall in the second, more lips are waiting to say that your first victory was just luck.”- dr. apJ abdul kalam

I like this quotation very much as it simply conveys that we must keep on trying hard for victories. To keep on working hard and smart, we need motivation in our jobs and from the company we work for.

I am motivated by the people I hire for my company. When I see them happy and doing great for the organisation, it makes me want to hire more people with similar skills and yes, a good attitude towards work and the company. I believe in hiring for the right fit and not a perfect professional. I believe in hiring talent which is in line with the company’s culture. We must all find the reason to stay motivated for continuous and better results, for being perfect and for making a difference.

I have come from a start-up consulting firm to a start-up construction/infrastructure firm. Working with start-ups has taught me to freely share my ideas and be flexible enough to implement them. The most important thing is that there would be more contribution towards the company’s growth, setting processes and benchmarks from our end. In addition we would come across many challenges and opportunities and become a better professional day by day even by the small mistakes we make.

The most important difference between my previous organisation and KEF, is that, I found KEF, has a vision towards improving the quality of life; be it in healthcare, education, agriculture or even infrastructure. I have understood the difference between working for other organisations and KEF. When you see work in progress in front of you, you will feel the difference and get inspired.

Self-motivation

16 | KEF Chronicles

to be in the right job: First step of self-motivation starts from being in the right job. As you feel good when you are in the job which you love. For example, I like dealing in non IT recruitment which I am doing at KEF rather than IT recruitment in any other IT company.

To be in the right organisation: The second important thing is that you have to ensure that you feel good about the organisation you are going to work for. As a fresher, at the starting of my career I got an opportunity in an IT company which I was not interested in. And now I am happy with my decision, of not taking up just another job, but waiting for the right company.

set up small goals in your current job: It’s like playing a video game where you have various stages. And you have to clear each stage to move to the next one. Similarly, setting up small goals in your current job and accomplishing them will always remain a big motivation and inspiration to do further wonders.

matching your values with those of the company’s: If your values match with those of the company’s values and mission, it automatically connects you with the job you do. Because you know that there is a purpose behind the job that you are doing. As KEF wants to improve healthcare, education, infrastructure and agriculture in India, it makes me aligned with the company’s goals and elevates my morale.

to associate with people having the right attitude: Negative people always make the environment negative. You must choose to be with people who have the right attitude. It’s great if you can influence negative environments into positive ones and open the right doors for others.

Always ready to accept opportunities and new challenges: Accepting challenges and seeking opportunities always helps in better growth in your career. Apart from talent acquisition, when I took up another interesting role i.e. organising team building activities, bringing people together and making them speak out. It really felt good. And that’s how I understood that I can also be a part of the training & development department along with talent acquisition.

take a break: You should always take a break in between work. It could be along with your day-to-day work i.e. having a sip of coffee or having a chat with your colleagues or playing a game (And yes keep in mind work as well). Or it even be taking a break for a short trip. Since I am a people’s person, I always speak to people, have fun and then get back to work.

A healthy diet with a fitness regime: “A sound mind in a sound body”. We should follow this. You are always active and fresh when you opt for an healthy diet and this coupled with a fitness regime (yoga/mediation/exercise) can do wonders.

Another inspiring quote from Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam “Excellence is a continuous process and not an accident.” When there is a continuous process you need to be self-motivated. Following such tips definitely makes professional life better and that’s how we can prepare ourselves to be a leading professional.

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Looking for self-motivation at work? Here are some pointers.

Oct’15 | 17

THE KEF gIRl

Madhurima Masoom

The adage “There is no force equal to a woman determined to rise” stands true. To cope with the

copious pressure exerted by the society, a woman has to think like a man, act like a lady, look like a young girl and work like a horse. As a girl, especially in India, one has to don many caps and take up many roles. Indian society is not a society which favours girls. It is male-dominated and has rules and regulations that are bent towards men, propel their growth and in the process curb women’s development, their freedom and their independence. Our society fails to realise that it is after all the blessed womb of a mother that gives birth to future Engineers, Doctors, Astronauts, Lawyers and so forth. It is high time we realised that “There is no tool for development more effective than the empowerment of women”.

The realisation of being so called weaker gender hit me for the first time in my college during a campus interview for one of the leading construction firms in India. Only 10 students out of 200 made it to the final round which was the personal interview. I was one of them and perhaps the only girl. My interviewer was a middle-aged man who was born with the thinking that women belong only in the kitchen and the sole purpose of their life is to serve their husbands and bear children which is very evident in the glimpse of my Personal Interview below:

Interviewer (looks at me condescendingly): So Madam, what will you do at site?

Me (completely taken aback): Sir, what do you do at site?

Interviewer (rolling his eyes): I am a man! I can work at the site but you are a woman. I don’t think you can work at the site. Also, once you get married you will have to do whatever your husband asks you to do. If he asks you to leave the job you will have to do and then you will have children and then career will no longer be a priority for you.

Me (fuming with anger): Sir, I am done with my interview but I would definitely like to answer all your questions not because I want this job but because I want to speak for all the women who have been underestimated by men like you their whole life. Firstly, if women like me can’t work at site it is because men like you are there at the site. But men like you are walking everyday on the road and things happen there as well, that does not mean we should stop going out of our houses. Secondly, my after marriage plans is something I have no idea about. In fact, I can’t tell you what will happen in my life in next two days. So, how can I predict what will I do after my marriage. However, I can certainly tell you that I will never get married to a man like you. And, thirdly the fact that I can bear children makes me feel special. We have a secret in our culture, it’s not that birth is painful, it’s that women are strong. I think I have answered all your questions. Thank you!

THE KEF GIRl

18 | KEF Chronicles

The interview left me enraged and fortunately I could channelise my rage in the right direction. However, there are girls who are subjected to similar situation every day and are forced to bear this torture silently. It made me realise that I am one of the lucky ones. My life is a sheer privilege because my parents didn’t love me less because I was born a daughter. My school did not limit me because I was a girl. My mentors didn’t assume that I would go less far because I might give birth to a child one day.

After that disastrous interview another opportunity came my way and I got an internship at KEF Infrastructure. To start with, KEF is full of opportunities. The vision of KEF reflects the principles of our chairman Mr. Faizal E Kottikollon who is one of the most genuine and benevolent persons I have ever had the opportunity to meet. His magnanimity reflects his legendary success. His perspective is crystal clear. He is here not just to earn profit but to make a difference. By taking small steps he is leaving a big impact on our society. His contributions in the field of technology advancement in construction, healthcare, education and most importantly ameliorating the position of women in society is immense. He wants every employee at KEF to prosper irrespective of their gender.

As the saying goes: “Behind every successful man, there is always a woman” and it is true. Mrs. Shabana Faizal is a

perfect exemplar of women for whom family and career are equally important. She is a huge inspiration for every female employee at KEF. She is not the one who would come in front. She remains behind the scenes and delivers. In sync with the proverb “The people who work behind the scenes are the real heroes”. Her élan and vivacity are infectious and she instils in everyone the desire to work hard and prosper.

I thank my stars every day that I am a part of KEF. My mentor Mr. Safarulla Abdul Azeez is one of the biggest inspirations in my life. His dedication towards his work, his firm belief in his principles and honesty leaves me in awe. He always motivates me to do well in life without compromising my principles and without hurting anyone. He does not see me being a girl as a shortcoming but a strength. He supports his team unconditionally and commands authority, respect and reverence from one and all, without making a show of his authority. I consider myself very lucky working under him and not just me, all his sub-ordinates voice the same opinion.

Being under the wings of such wonderful and influential people, KEF definitely will be a part of history books of India in time to come. Let us all be a part of this phenomenal achievement and make our contribution in the most positive way. After all, “Lives of great men all remind us, that we must make our life sublime.And departing, leave behind us footprints in the sands of time.”

The fact that I can bear children makes me feel

special. We have a secret in our culture, it’s not that

birth is painful, it’s that women are strong

Oct’15 | 19

Graduated in Architecture from Coimbra’s University in Portugal I have had, in my opinion, what I think was

a balanced input of the art and science that Architecture combines in itself.

It’s not just about creating bold and visually appealing shapes that can be worthy of a magazine cover. It’s also about making the building an efficient object, from its structure to its details, taking into account the human activities and living in harmony with the elements.

Between a spaceship like airport that wins several awards, but after one week is leaking on the first rain, and a humble house or school made with local materials, but it’s performing its duty well and people are happy in it, I prefer the second.

My first professional experience was in Portugal - the internship that gives recent graduates the legal permission to sign architecture projects. I was involved especially in small projects such as house renovations, add-ons and a restaurant. It was my first contact with the profession in an economically harsh environment that is still present in Portugal and throughout Europe to some extent. While working there, sometimes I actually had to ask the lead architect for more work, or even invent something to do.

The fact is that Portugal has at the moment more than 22,000 architects, which for a population of 10 million is way too much. This happened, in part due to the prestige of the job among the artistic field but also due to the relative economical easiness of graduating in a University, compared to other countries. With the unexplainable rise in allocation for new Architecture students, the only choice for most of them is to work in some different area or emigrate, the situation that actually happened to me.

After doing a brief internship in another company in my town and then having worked as a waiter in a bakery (because one needs money to survive) an opportunity rose in Shenzhen, China.

In this new huge city of opportunities, changes, and cranes popping out everywhere, I joined an office with architects exclusively. Ran by Dutch and Chinese architects with European formation, the artistic side of it was evident. In China, with the financial matters and the urge to build as fast as possible, a big part of the residential condominiums come out from a more or less standardised recipe, with less care for the architectural design. Fortunately I was able to work in an office that valued

ENCOURAGING ExPATS TO wORK AT KEFAn auto-biography

Ruben Vilas Boas

research, concepts and experimentation. A landscape area of a Hotel in Macau as well as a residential tower were the main projects I contributed to.

Apart from the overwhelming speed of skyscrapers rising, Shenzhen is good example of a well-planned city with a very good public transport system. Making plans is fundamental in every area.

Now, working at KEF Infrastructure in India, planning has an even deeper meaning. As a company who works with precast concrete, the thought given into the design of every wall, column or window is a very important part of the process in which engineers, architects and different technicians are all involved.

India has an obvious need for infrastructure, and being able to work in education, healthcare, residential, industrial and other

projects to improve people’s lives is rather rewarding. One has the opportunity to grow and gain responsibility with the vast range of projects being developed presently. As a concept architect, I have the chance to start projects from scratch as well as incorporating the characteristics of a precast building system into the initial ideas.

I welcome everyone to get to know our work and even join our team in an exciting and gratifying environment.

ENCOURAGING ExPATS

20 | KEF Chronicles

DIGITAL PRESENCE OF KEF HOldINgS

Shashank Srinivasan

Digital presence is very important these days as each and everything is relaying on computers and internet. It’s

simply said that if you don’t have a digital presence today, you don’t exist.

KEF Holdings is making its way gradually on the internet and slowly increasing its popularity. Based on a strong foundation with the mission and vison we have managed to use various platforms on the internet to mark our presence.

KEF Holdings follow a unique and organic method of making its digital presence, as we all know that content is king. The right way of content usage helps us in this factor. Presently advertising is not our key focus, as this technology is state-of-the-art and people are more attracted towards the concept itself.

Stressing on the local digital presence is important as we have offices and factories in many locations worldwide. This helps in searches from the local areas and within the city. The major goal is to stress on local presence because it is up-to-date and easily discoverable on the local internet.

As a part of our digital strategy we follow three main steps which are, Design conceptualising, Content creation and Technology.

• Design and conceptualising is the initial step were basic visualisation and output is picturised with an objective

• Content creation is about having the right content, media and illustration in place, and ready to get out on the right network

• Choosing the right technology and creating content accordingly is very important as each medium attracts different types of audiences

KEF Holdings has its online presence in various mediums. Some of them are being mentioned below:

Website: To start with a strong foundation, corporate website is very important as we have all the information about the company and other business vertical details. www.kefholdings.com includes updates like; media gallery, newsroom, press releases and social interactive pages. This keeps our website more dynamic and up-to-date with regards to our business. With this we are able to increase footfalls to our website from different sources.

Social media presence online: Our social media presence is very unique and the reason to be present in these networks is that it could be targeted to greater audience as the social network is being popular these days. KEF Holdings’ presence uses all popular social networking sites like Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Google+ and YouTube.

Other online media support: Since KEF Holdings is technologically forward and is using the relevant digital apps online lot of print and electronic media are able to identify KEF Holdings online. Which includes various news portals, bloggers, local directories, databases etc.

Check our online presence in these links:

www.kefholdings.com

/kefholdings

/KEFHoldings

/company/kefholdings

/user/KEFHoldings

DIGITAl PRESENCE

Oct’15 | 21

The memories of my school bring a smile to my face. As I sit to write: the ink from my pen flows as if urging me to share

my experience. Today, I am sharing to let everyone reading this know, how a couple, a foundation brought unimaginable changes in the lives of so many of us girls.

One couple, Mr. Faizal E Kottikollon and his wife Mrs. Shabana has made me dream larger than I can think of. The Foundation they have set up has helped transform the way people look at Education in Government Schools. I wish every girl child in this country gets an opportunity to be able to study in a government school as my school. PRISM (Promoting Regional Schools to International Standards through Multiple Interventions) taught me and all the 2,500 students at Government Vocational Higher Secondary School (GVHSS) Nadakkavu to dream high and contribute for a better nation and believe that WE ARE THE FUTURE OF INDIA.

WINGS TO My dREAMS

Devika Student at GVHSS, Nadakkavu

But then it was never like this for me till about a few years ago. Let me start with where I was earlier and my initial days here in this school.

I did my initial schooling in a well-known private school in Kozhikode, in the Southern State of Kerala, India and to shift to a government school was in a way psychologically weakening me. I was wondering why my parents are doing this. From my interactions with friends and others I knew government schools in India are neglected and the infrastructure is bad. As a girl my concern was untidy toilets and unsafe school premises. However, when I went to GVHSS, Nadakkavu I was dumb struck. What people had told me about a Government School and what I was seeing in reality just did not match – it was totally different.

wINGS TO My DREAMS

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The classrooms were neat and tidy, there was proper lightings and projectors, indoor stadium of international standard, well maintained and clean canteen, atrium and the most attractive was the AstroTurf football ground. When I saw all this, I felt that I was part of an international school. The school uniform (Skirts and Coats) increased my level of confidence as people started noticing me. As a teenager you can imagine this was a real confidence booster for me. The complete environment of the school: the infrastructure and the ambience made me feel pleasant as I enter the school every day. Today, I am very excited to come to school every day.

I was encouraged to read by my teachers and the natural reading area at Nadakkavu School gave me the space to do so. The gardens helped me connect to my inner self and helped me become more creative. The walkways in the school with the pergolas and creepers with flowers hanging makes me feel as if I am walking in wonderland.

The most tidy place of a house should be the kitchen, sorry, not my words but what the elders in my family have always told me. Our school has gone by this advice totally and the canteen with green chairs gives a feeling of a food court in a mall than a mess hall. The food is prepared by women of the Kudumbasree Unit and meals are the tastiest I have ever eaten in a school.

Nadakkavu School is visited by personalities from all walks of life – film stars, professionals, artists, politicians, bureaucrats, and educators. We have interactions with them and it has

given us girls new hope and motivation to dream higher. The most memorable day for me was meeting the ‘King of Music’ - A R Rahman. This wouldn’t have been possible for me if I was not a student of this school.

I was also fortunate to become a member of PRISM School Development Committee (PSDC) – the highest policy making body of the School. This made me more responsible as a student and a citizen. I became more aware of the goals of the project PRISM, a glorious project initiated by our respected MLA (local elected representative) Mr. Pradeep Kumar.

In the PSDC meeting every program is planned to uplift the standards of our school.

PRISM project gained its true international level with the contribution of Faizal & Shabana Foundation. Mr. Faizal and Mrs. Shabana would personally come to oversee the work and also attend the PSDC meetings. I was always awe struck by the couple. The professional yet loving interactions, the desire to give back to society and that too selflessly, and most of all the genuineness with which they did all this. Their views to improve the standard of the society through quality education in Government Schools gave PRISM project and my school a new dimension.

PRISM project with the support of innumerable people made GVHSS for Girls at Nadakkavu the best school ever in Kerala. The students are an integral part of implementing the plans. We are always given a special space and our views are valued.

PRISM has made things possible which seemed impossible. We are encouraged to be part of all activities and given responsibilities during events and this increases our confidence. The documentation of each function of our school is done by the students. We are encouraged to be professional by the PSDC members. I am lucky to be interviewed for various magazines covering the story of my school. Our school was ranked 5th best Government School of India by Education World last year and this year we are ranked 4th. This bring in additional responsibility on my friends and me to keep up the standard of the school.

I will be passing out from this school next year but wish to be a part of my school always. I want my school to continue to grow so that the innumerable girls coming to this school will enjoy the same atmosphere as I enjoy.

The days I spend in the school taught me to dream. My school guided me to dream and gave wings to my dreams. I sincerely thank Mr. Faizal and Mrs. Shabana and their Foundation for making this difference in my life and the lives of other girls - who are there today at Nadakkavu and who will be passing through Nadakkavu in the future and not just passing as it used to happen earlier but having their lives truly transformed, giving ‘Wings to their Dreams’!

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AN INTEGRATED VILLAGE DEVELOPMENTA pROFESSIONAl AppROACH

The holy land of wise scholars, men of valour and courage, blessed with the green valleys, hills and hillocks and

inhabited by people known for innovative farming was divided, for the formation of Krishnagiri district, carved out of Dharmapuri district as the 30th district of Tamil Nadu on February 9th, 2004. ‘Krishna’ refers to ‘black’ and ‘giri’ refers to ‘hill’. This district is gifted with black granite hillocks and named as ‘Krishnagiri’. Historically, the region was under the rule of Krishna Deva Raya and hence it might have been named after this king too.

Fourteen kilometres away from Krishnagiri town is Ennegollu panchayat which comes under Veppanapalli block of Krishnagiri district and consists of eight villages. KEF Holdings has been associated with this Panchayat through the KEF Infra Park.

The Faizal & Shabana Foundation commissioned Praxis Institute for Participatory Practices to undertake a panchayat-level micro-planning study at Ennegollu panchayat in Tamil Nadu’s Krishnagiri district of India. The purpose of the study was to conduct a micro level planning exercise in one panchayat in Krishnagiri district to unpack social, economic, political and other dynamics and realities to enable more focused equitable planning and overcome some of the identified barriers and challenges.

Praxis Institute for Participatory Practices is a development support organisation specialising in participatory approaches to sustainable development which aims to enable excluded people to have an active and influential say in their own equitable and sustainable development. Praxis is committed to mainstreaming the voices of the poor and marginalised sections of the society in the process of development. This stems from the belief that for development to be sustainable, the process must be truly participative.

Dr. Joseph Sebastian Head Faizal & Shabana Foundation

INTEGRATED village development

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Praxis devises practices to enhance the participation of the community in all its endeavours while at the same time acknowledging that participation is not a technical or a mechanical process that can be realised through the application of a set of static and universal tools and techniques, but rather a political process that requires challenging the existing power structure. Thus, for Praxis, the community is not seen as an object but rather as an agent of change. It endeavours to work towards participatory democracy through social inclusion, public accountability and good governance.

The Faizal & Shabana Foundation has been involved in many philanthropic projects globally. Its current focus is in India, with sectors that include healthcare, education, housing, sustainable living, humanitarian assistance and sports. The Foundation believes that education is the key to uplifting society, and is therefore actively involved in nurturing future generations with its flagship project of Promoting Regional Schools to International Standards through Multiple Interventions (PRISM) presently being run in Government Vocational Higher Secondary School for Girls. Nadakkavu in Kozhikode, Kerala and being scaled up to 100 more schools as Mission 100.

The Faizal & Shabana Foundation aims to go beyond singularly funding projects. While funding such causes is a key duty of the Foundation, it sees prudence in holistically involving itself in developmental projects it associates with. This is done by drawing upon the strength of its various stakeholders, including its strategic alliances like KEF Infra and others, who contribute their project management expertise, labour and technological know how through different stages of the project. This would involve evaluating the need of a specific situation, weighing various solution options, working towards implementing the best possible solution and ensuring that the benefits reach the people and community.

Methodology and Tools of StudyThe research locations were selected to identify the existing conditions of the community, such as demographic profile, habitation pattern, caste profile, land distribution pattern, agricultural pattern, accessibility to institutions and other necessary services related to health, education, agriculture and market. The research also explored the history of the villages, existence of local institutions, awareness of external agencies and possible opportunities/alternative livelihoods within the village and its surrounding areas.

The research tools used for the study included: Social / Resource MapSocial map shows the different social structures such as households, health centres, schools, temples, and other major institutions found in the area. The map indicates the social and economic characteristics of the households.

Its objectives are:• To understand the habitation pattern according to caste

and occupation

• Present infrastructure - related to various services

• Land ownership pattern

• Types of land

• To know the influence / impact in peopleʼs life (does it have any positive or negative influence on their livelihoods / do they see this as a kind of opportunity for alternative livelihoods)

Hierarchical Card SortingHierarchical Card Sorting (HCS) is a participatory card sorting option designed to provide insight into how people categorise and rank different phenomena. It focuses on a process of iterative comparisons between different issues around the village, typically written on cards, which are in turn sorted in line with the participant’s own value judgments, criteria and standards.

Its objectives are:• To understand the available options for livelihood in the village

and its surrounding areas

• To understand livelihood options

Oct’15 | 25

Seasonality of LivelihoodA seasonal calendar is a participatory tool to explore seasonal changes. To learn about changes in livelihoods over the year and to show the seasonality of agricultural and non-agricultural workload, food availability, human diseases, gender-specific income and expenditure, water, forage, credit and holidays.

Its objectives are:• Seasons and gender disaggregated work according to months

• To understand the crop pattern, agricultural pattern, and other cash crops and high yielding crops

Transect WalkA transect walk is a systematic walk along a defined path (transect) across the community/village area together with the local people to explore the social resources, infrastructure, water and sanitation conditions by observing, asking, listening and looking. The transect walk is normally conducted during the initial phase of the fieldwork. The information is gathered from direct observation while walking in a straight line through the community.

Its objectives are:• To understand the history of the village and important events,

awareness about the geographical conditions in the village and presence of external agencies

• Cultivation shift

• Infrastructure and agriculture fields

Daily Activity ChartDaily Activity Chart illustrate all of the different kinds of activities carried out in one day. They are particularly useful for looking at relative workloads between different groups in the community. Comparisons between clocks show who works the longest hours, who concentrates on a few activities and who does a number of tasks in a day, and who has the most leisure time and sleep.

Its objectives are:• To understand what women, men and youth do

• To understand when is their lean time

• To understand who do a number of tasks in a day

• To understand who have the most leisure time and sleep

Focus Group Discussion - Aspiration MappingA focus group discussion (FGD) is a good way to gather together people from similar backgrounds or experiences to discuss a specific topic of interest. Focus groups can be separately done among female and male it can also be done among boys and girls, if there is time.

Its objectives are to indentify:• How people see their village 5 years down the line

• Short-term and long-term demands

• Who can be the potential partners for change

• Local perceptions of nutrition and household food security

• The constraints in the household and community on alternative livelihood and employment

• The mechanisms in the household and the community to cope food insecurity

• What community, household and individual resources are required to obtain household food security

Well-being Ranking This exercise can help characterise the different wealth groups and start a discussion on what factors are important

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determinants of poverty as well as well-being. Wealth ranking is best carried out immediately following social mapping in order to be able to physically locate specific households and link socio-economic criteria to the wealth categories.

Its objectives are:• To investigate perceptions of wealth differences and inequalities

in a village

• To map the relative position of households in a village

Stakeholder MatrixStakeholder analysis is an essential part of developing a useful engagement plan. A common method of stakeholder analysis is a Stakeholder Matrix where stakeholders are plotted against two variables. These variables might be plotting the level of ‘stake’ in the village against ‘resources’ of the stakeholder. Another is the ‘importance’ of the stakeholder against the ‘influence’ of the stakeholder.

Stakeholder matrix on Institutions shows institutions, organisations, groups and important individuals found in the village, as well as the villagers view of their importance in the community. The Institutional Relationship Diagram also indicates how close the contact and cooperation between those organisations and groups is and who can be the potential partners for change.

Facilitation ProcessTo conduct a fruitful Participatory Appraisal exercise, several aspects are important.

They include:1. Encourage participation: Meet in open areas, where all can

observe and comment on charts or maps. Keep the circle open to encourage participation.

2. Minimise your role: Allow the participants the space to take the lead in activities. One should resist the temptation to move to a higher position (standing over participants, moving into the circle to get more attention or speaking louder, etc.). The more one keeps a low profile, the more the participants are likely to take the lead.

3. Keep language simple: Use simple terms like savings, crops instead of “financial services”. Use words that the community people use in their daily lives. No Jargons please.

4. Think about your facial expressions: An encouraging smiling face can be an asset, just as frowning can create insecurity among participants.

5. Take care of the facilitators’ appearance: Do not wear clothes that sets the facilitator apart, distract or intimidate others.

6. Spend time in the village: This eliminates delays due to travel, but is also an opportunity to create a relationship with the community and learn about the place. This also ensures that the facilitators are ready for the participants, and not the other way around.

7. Observe: Facilitators can easily learn who are the leaders in the group and in the community. Listen to reactions.

8. Be a student: Facilitators are here to guide the process, but not the expert on the participants’ situation. They listen and learn. Ask questions respectfully and resist the temptation to impose facilitator’s own ideas.

Key Issues and AspirationsThe Panchayat has pockets of extreme poverty and deprivation. These include sub-population groups like the elderly, widows and people with disability, who experience extreme poverty, and the scheduled caste community who are subtly but explicitly deprived of opportunities by blockade of information and access to physical spaces. This segment would constitute about 10% of the total population.

For a large portion of the population, the standard of living has improved over time due to a slew of welfare measures and the overall progress that the state has made. Along with it, came the lifestyle changes that brought in much more dependence on external economy. Decline in agriculture due to water scarcity, crop damage by wild animals, fragmentation and sale of land due to industrialisation has deeply affected the food security. This, combined with the inability to move into tertiary sectors due to lack of viable opportunities and appropriate skills, is likely to negate the gains of the last few decades. Current engagements in the tertiary sectors are not more than a coping mechanism for most. These pose the biggest challenges for the panchayat.

Oct’15 | 27

Strategic PlansThe strategic plan has been developed based on the prioritised issues during the research process. The broad issues and objectives are:

S.No Issue Objective

TOILET

1

90% defecate in open. no toilet facility.Women and girls suffer more due to lack of privacy and security. burden during health issues such as diarrhoea.Women face issues during menstruation.

To create an open-defecation free panchayat

EMPLOyMENT

2

Lack of employment opportunities.inability to move into tertiary sectors due to lack of viable opportunities and appropriate skills.Due to decline in agriculture, men are going out for coolie work.challenges of employability are not limited to lack of technical skills - migrant youth from low-income, disadvantaged backgrounds also struggle with low confidence and low awareness. Lack of information.even with educational qualifications there are no job opportunities. Lethargic attitude- Lack of continuous work culture.

To provide and facilitate employment opportunities

for youth, women and men

AGRICULTURE

3

Weakening agricultural productivity. Traditional farming is economically not viable. Rainfall deficit. decline in agriculture due to water scarcity, fragmentation and sale due to industrialisation have deeply affected their food security.Last decades are strongly related to poor agricultural productivity which have led to poverty.Some villages are in uphill areas and bore cost is too high.Crop loss due to Monkey, Wild Pig and Elephant.lack of access to loan due to our low land holding.Food security, since their incomes depend on local agriculture, they benefit little from.

To bring about significant, long-term (sustainable)

change in resource-poor, small-scale farming

communities

EDUCATION

4

Lack of enough teachers. to improve standard and quality of education in the panchayat. Less importance given to girls’ education. long distance travel for higher secondary education.Lack of transport facility. lack of motivation because of those who are educated have no jobs.Attraction to private English medium school. Parents prefer private schools over government schools only because they teach in English. Government schools are lacking the potential to attract students. Mid-day meal scheme have attracted poor students.

To improve standard and quality of education

in the panchayat

PRIMARy HEALTH

5

Distance to Primary Health Centre and Government Hospital.time and money. 8 km to kurubarapalli for phc & 16 km to krishnagiri for gh.Seasonal health issues and maternal health issues.anm visits the village once in 15 days, so difficult to access consultation, treatment and medicine in emergency situations. Exploitation by quacks.

To strengthen access to public sector healthcare

in rural areas

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PUBLIC DISTRIBUTION SySTEM (PDS)

6

Distance to Public Distribution Services (PDS).lack of government building for ration shop. Risky to reach Ration shop due to National Highway.low agricultural productivity leading to food scarcity.

To expand and provide easy access to PDS for all

people in the villages

INFRASTRUCTURE

7

Lack of transport facilities no proper roads connecting villages.No playground facility and exercise equipment for youth and children.lack of post office. Lack of library.lack of equitable access to burial ground.

To strengthen the public infrastructure and

equitable access for all

GOvERNMENT SCHEMES & ENTITLEMENTS

8

Lack of information about government schemes and entitlements.lack of follow-up mechanism to get schemes.Need to spend extra money as bribe to get entitlements. old age pension (oap) stopped between 6 months to 1 year in all villages.Lack of access to Aadhar card in some villages such as Ennegollu, Karikalnatham.

To facilitate inclusive and quick access to

Government schemes and entitlements

ENERGy

9

Power cut of 5 hours (maximum) every day.voltage problems occur most of the time which affect motor usage for agriculture and drinking water.Around 10% don’t have electricity connections. They use charger lights or kerosene lights. only 10% have gas connection.

To ensure access to affordable, sustainable, and modern energy for all

GENDER

10

Lack of participation and decision making at panchayat / gram sabha level.low literacy level and less importance given to girl’s education.More work burden for women other than household works.Shg can play major role in economic development. only women are working in mnregS scheme.Appointment of internal staff needed.lack of adequate centres.

To bring greater participation in decision-making at the household

and village levelsTo facilitate access to assets and economic

opportunities for women

Follow up action:Based on the study and the prioritisation of needs, Faizal & Shabana Foundation will be implementing a holistic developmental project for Ennegollu Panchayat with the goal being quality of life enhancement and holistic development of all families in the target area.The target area include all the villages of Ennegollu Panchayat in Krishnagiri District. The focus of the intervention will be on each and every member of the community. It is accepted that the needs would be different and interventions will be need based. However the focus has to be across all segments of the society.Areas of intervention: Though the foundation is looking forward to a holistic intervention; for now as the PRA study had highlighted the following four areas are being considered for immediate attention: sanitation, sustainable agriculture, education, skill enhancement for youngsters and facilitation for universal reach of all welfare schemes of the Government among the target population.

Oct’15 | 29

BRINGING UP, INDUSTRIAL TRAINING SKIllINg THE pOOR ONES

A country’s locus in the world is measured by the number of technically versed people within that country.

Development hinges on the utilisation of this skilled labour. So in a way the technical training for these people will surely bring about an astounding increase in the financial eminence of a country. So it is cardinal to discipline the people to take a path for leading the nation towards the pace of development. In this world where people continue to see to their own interests, achievements and prosperity, very few can ever think of taking the society as whole into the path of achievements.

One such organisation that takes up strides to bring up the poor ones through their training is KEF Holdings. They provide additional courses to the astray youngsters, guiding them into the right direction. We wish that the Almighty would blaze a trail for us through the deep woods of the future, but that‘s not His way. He doesn’t leave us without guidance. He prepares a way through people. We are indebted to the core of our hearts to the Faizal & Shabana Foundation.

Mr. Faizal and Mrs. Shabana, the founders of KEF Holdings (of which the Faizal & Shabana Foundation is a part) are the true architects, who elevate the people by providing them education making them skilled labours so that they can live a fruitful life with a prestige in the society so that they in turn can lead the country to achieve greater heights.

I, Naveen Kumar K S, the principal of ITI of BA group, feel proud to be associated with the place named Thumbay (in the native language Thumbay means ‘too much’).

SKIllING THE POOR

Naveen Kumar K S Principal, BA ITI Thumbay

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In the year 2013 a new project called ‘PRISM’ was introduced at Nadakkavu, Calicut in Kerala by the Faizal & Shabana Foundation. I had the privilege of attending the inaugural ceremony and was awe stuck by the change that has happened in a Government School. It reminded me of a thought by Edwin Markham, “There is a destiny which make us brothers: None goes this way alone, all that we sent into the life of others come back into our own”.

Mr. Faizal is the man who upholds knowledge and broad-mindedness. Very approachable to all associates. He is the man, who is dedicated to the core of his presence. Very punctual and sincere. The happiest people are those who think the most interesting thought. Mr. Faizal is one such person. His attitude is reflected in his work. Presently, I am managing the BA ITI Thumbay. It was the dream project of Honourable Janab B Ahmed Haji Mohiudeen. In 2013, after the PRISM, Faizal & Shabana Foundation thought of taking BA ITI, Thumbay to a greater height. A dream to take it to be among the best institute of India. Thus followed the construction of the new building with the electronic laboratory, computer laboratory, office rooms, machines for diesel and AC mechanic laboratory etc. In January 2015 (at the decennial celebrations of BA-ITI) the new and upgraded ITI was inaugurated. I am proud to share that in the same year we attained 100% results and also got the national accreditation. We extend our heartfelt thanks to the Almighty who made it possible through BA Group-Mohiudeen Educational Trust Thumbay, Faizal & Shabana Foundations and Thumbay Mohiudeen - Chancellor of Gulf Medical College. We pray to the Almighty to shower His choicest blessing on all.

It is a dream of our Prime Minister to have better infrastructure for India. KEF Industrial Park in Krishnagiri is a step towards the fulfillment of that dream by KEF Holdings. It is indeed a big leap in contribution towards the Nation. The Faizal & Shabana Foundation is providing support for training at ITIs and Engineering Institutes with high quality Infrastructure facilities where youngsters get trained to be Draughtsmen, Electricians, Fillers, Mechanics- Motor Vehicles, Plumbers etc.

I feel proud to state that KEF Holdings has tremendous potential in making Mangaluru a true Smart City.

We develop an intimacy with the Almighty when we work for His people. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to Mr. Faizal, Mrs. Shabana and Janab Mohiudeen for leading the torch, so as to brighten Thumbay and Mangaluru City while contributing to our Country’s progress.

Life is no brief candle to me. It is a sort of splendid

torch, which I have got hold of for the moment,

and I want to make it burn as brightly as possible

before handing it on to the future generation

George B Shaw

Oct’15 | 31

lOOKING BACK

LOOKING BACK

march 21, 2015: Meeting with Mr. Amitabh Kant, Secretary, Dept. of Industrial Policy and Promotion, Govt. of India

april 4, 2015: Meeting with Mr. P. Thangamani, Hon’ble Minister for Industries and Transport, Govt. of Tamil Nadu

July 7, 2015: Finalist for the Unilever Global Development Award administered by Business in The Community which is part of the Prince of Wales’ Responsible Business Network

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July 15, 2015: 11th Convocation Ceremony at the Great Lakes Institute of Management in Chennai

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July 20, 2015: Mr. Faizal E Kottikollon addressing the guests at the inauguration of KEF Pre-cast Factory, Krishnagiri

July 20, 2015: Mr. Jitu Virwani, CEO Embassy Group and Chief Guest addressing and greeting the guests at the inauguration of KEF Pre-cast Factory, Krishnagiri

July 20, 2015: Mr. Faizal E Kottikollon on a factory tour with Mr. Jitu Virwani through the KEF Pre-cast Factory, Krishnagiri

July 20, 2015: Mr. Andre Dienst addressing the guests at the inauguration of KEF Pre-cast Factory, Krishnagiri

July 20, 2015: Inauguration of KEF Pre-cast Factory, Krishnagiri

July 20, 2015: Mr. Andre Dienst explaining a procedure at the KEF Pre-cast Factory, Krishnagiri

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august 17, 2015: Prime Minister Narendra Modi along with Mr. Faizal E Kottikollon and other dignitaries during the Prime Minister’s visit to Abu Dhabi and Dubai for Investors Meet

august 17, 2015: Mr. Faizal E Kottikollon greeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the Prime Minister’s visit to Abu Dhabi and Dubai for the Investors Meet

Oct’15 | 35

september 10, 2015: Groundbreaking ceremony at Embassy 7B project

august 25, 2015: Mr. Faizal E Kottikollon and team at Architect Hafeez Contractor’s

office along with his team

august 25, 2015: Architect Hafeez Contractor visits KEF Industrial Park, Krishnagiri

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september 11, 2015: Mr. Faizal E Kottikollon representing KEF Infra at the Global Investors Meet, Chennai

september 10, 2015: Groundbreaking ceremony at

Embassy 7B project

september 11, 2015: Signing of MoU between Mr. Faizal E Kottikollon and Mr. CV Sankar, Addl. Chief Secretary,

Industries (Govt. Of Tamil Nadu) at the Global Investors Meet, Chennai

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GLOBAL SUPPLY CHAIN, INDIAN PERSPECTIVE AND KEF’S STRATEgIES

Manish Ladkani

With growing complexity in the supply chain activities of any firm, uncertainties have also grown in large

numbers. More dynamic situations and processes have led firms to make changes in supply chain so as to make it efficient and effective simultaneously. This article identifies the risk involved in varying the capacity utilisation and its effect on the supply chain of the firms. By assessing the risk, we mean the risk on supply chain factors, both internal and external in varying the capacity utilisation for the firm and to consider this risk by the firm in varying the capacity. The basic types of risk associated with supply chain variations are purchase risk, delivery risk and warehousing risk.

Risk is omnipresent in every dimension of our lives. The encountering or managing of risk is a daily routine and it’s not surprising that risk management dates back to ancient civilisation. People in those times planned for catastrophes and famines in a similar way. Organisations as a whole are associated with risks on a regular basis and they need to be mitigated or handled properly.

GlOBAl SUPPly CHAIN indian perSpective

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Supply chain risk management has recently gained a lot of importance as evident from the fact that more than 90% CEOs surveyed by world economic forum indicate that supply chain and transport risk management has become a greater priority in their organisation over the last five years (World Economic Forum Annual Meeting 2011). Increase in competition has led companies to cut cost and increase their capital effectiveness, which in turn has led to increase in spending on supply chain by 12 % in companies (AMR analysis John-Fontanella, 2007-08). Supply chains incorporate risks at each and every level and thus supply chain risk management for an effective supply chain is vital. SCRM is coming up fast as a preferred area for research for academicians as well as practitioners as firms expand globally. It is suggested by experts that SCRM is now an integral part of SCM ideology (Christopher and Lee, 2004). At the same time; it’s very difficult & challenging to manage the risks in the modern environment. The firms are pushing hard for competition, there is widespread uncertainty in the supply & demand and the product & technology life cycles are getting short day by day. The increased use of outsourcing, complex international supply networks & logistics has increased the vulnerability to risks (Christopher and Towill, 2002). The reading of articles on risk management by us clearly suggested that most of the work has been done after the year 2000. There has been substantial increase in the amount of research and studies on this topic.

Indian ScenarioMost of the world’s problems are not anymore specific to respective countries. With increasing globalisation and outreach of MNCs and local companies alike have led all managers and CxOs of any firm to think globally with localised solutions to their problems. India is no different. With Infrastructure sector picking up pace and new investment coming into the Indian market, the market is set to take a new turn. But at the same time CxOs do realise that the problem is more localised in Indian context. Hence solutions ought to be localised too. The logistics sector in Indian context is still unorganised at large. Recently many startups have been able to raise funding from investors as they try to organise the sector. Innovation is the key and disruptions can happen overnight.

With GST set to come into effect from April 2016, the logistics sector will get a tax boost and ease the movement of goods interstate. Various State Governments will then have a set mechanism to identify the taxes that a firm should have to pay and the hidden tax regime will slowly disappear giving right signals for the biggies of supply chain firms to set up shop in India. With this the local solutions would be adopted on global-local to solve a common problem to movement of goods.

Oct’15 | 39

Capacity Utilisation as a factor for risk assessmentCapacity is defined as the output that can be produced by a firm in a fixed time period and with limited stock of resources like capital etc. The output is calculated on the normal condition basis i.e. excluding the time required for maintenance and repairs of the machinery. When the capacity utilisation is kept constant, the increase or decrease in capacity would require changes in capital stock in fixed proportion to changes in output i.e. net real investment would vary directly proportional to rate of change of output. Risk and uncertainty has always been at the core of all management decisions related to supply chain effectiveness. Earlier literature has considered risks in terms of various components namely supply lead time reliability, demand volatility and price uncertainty which lead to need for safety stock, inventory pooling etc. to attend to exigency situation arising in the future.

Supply chain risks could be in the form of delay in supplying of material, large forecasting errors, system breakdowns, capacity issues, inventory problems and disruptions.

As evident from the above graph, capacity utilisation has decreased during the economic crisis of 2008 making firms to cut down production and also reduce demand for raw material thereby putting pressure on the whole supply chain. The pressure can be felt from starting point of supplier’s demand to end customers.

As per one of the studies conducted, results indicate the implications of varying utilisation of available capacity in a real time environment. This study reveals the direct impact of varying capacity utilisation from a business perspective which has not been much discussed from a risk framework point of view. The outcomes further strengthen the fact that decisions related to capacity utilisation are strategic in nature and not just operational with a limited scope. The most important aspect that we study here is the risk impact while realising that firms generally tend to achieve increasing returns to

capacity utilisation in indian industries(normal or above normal)

120

100

80

60

40

20

0

Jul-0

8

Sep-

08

nov

-08

Jan-

09

mar

-09

may

-09

Jul-0

9

Sep-

09

nov

-09

Jan-

10

mar

-10

may

-10

Jul-1

0

Sep-

10

nov

-10

Jan-

11

mar

-11

NCAER

resp

onse

(%)

RBI

scale (IRS) as per demand variations. Seasonal variation in utilization of capacity is a common and well known fact where a firm would typically increase shifts, timings and machine hours to match demand. But if we look at the entire picture holistically, the variation in upstream firms for raw materials is limited due to restrictions by downstream firms and they are contractually obliged. Typically sourcing pattern changes in these conditions and interactions with suppliers would also change. Consequentially there is a trade-off with quality, delays and the inherent risk of the firm increases. The study observes these risks by studying historical data and establishing patterns to understand the trade-offs that can be done in matching demand with variation in capacity utilisation. However study is done on a small – medium scale firm as tracking of confidential capacity data was easier due to availability. The trend however would be the same for higher capacity and large scale firms where only the monetary value of risk implications would be more. The study does not give a definite mathematical model but intends to establish the relations between critical factors which are risk prone and capacity utilisation. Going forward this can be extended to an intelligent mathematical model that would establish mathematical equations through these factors. The variations can be simulated before varying the capacity and through a detailed risk framework, monetary value of the implied risk can be found out. So, we can say the study is a gateway to quantifying the underlying risks and their assessment in order to visualise the business implications.

40 | KEF Chronicles

KEF’s strategiesWith most of our machinery being imported, supply chain is bound to impact the bottom line of the organisation. Not only imports, as we keep our eyes on global market (mainly Gulf) to export our quality products, the necessity of having an efficient supply chain cannot be stressed more. Understanding of all the costs involved in getting the material transported from one place to another be it import or within India will anytime give us the picture of how logistics are going to impact us in a big way.

As such, collaborations with multiple vendors who have strength in some sectors is the key to growth. As the market is fragmented, multiple vendors serve different sectors and sea routes around the world. Hence, it makes sense to identify those vendors who have strength in particular sectors so that there is no delay in getting the material transported. More than the cost, the service and efficient response of the service providers count as an important ingredient in identifying the valuable players in the market. As the popular saying goes, “Never put all your eggs in one basket” we can always have multiple players on board and diversify the risk involved.

To give an example of efficient supply chain, I take the example of the most valuable Technology Product Company of the World Apple Inc., who doesn’t manufacture part that goes into its product but ends up making the most awesome products in the world.

In a nutshell, Apple purchases components and materials from various suppliers, then gets them shipped to the assembling plant in China. From there, products are shipped directly to consumers (via UPS/Fedex) who bought from Apple’s Online Store.

Having said this, KEF’s strategy is to evolve on a daily basis as the processes gets more and more complex and globalised. This along with the quality of the product can provide the best solution to the client and eventually help in developing the country at large.

Oct’15 | 41

ALUMINIUM glAzINg FACTORy

Santhanam R

We at KEF, are committed to change the way the construction industry in India is functioning nowadays.

In the conventional construction system, the customer has to depend on so many vendors / sub-contractors (such as civil construction, Façade, Doors & windows, HVAC, Interior finishing and joinery fit outs and other cladding features etc.,) to get their projects / buildings completed. It is so obvious, that depending on so many vendors, is really a Himalayan task when it comes to co-ordination since each and every vendor / sub-contractor is interconnected with other vendors and vice versa. Generally in such a system, we can see all the vendors / sub-contractors usually blame others for their own delays / failures in meeting deadlines which leads towards undue delay of the projects.

Our Mission Statement says “Be Different. Make a Difference”. In line with our Mission Statement, we at KEF, are on the mission to provide the quality / sustainable buildings at unimaginable speed, which is very much lacking in the Indian construction industry. In line with this customer oriented concept, we at KEF, have set up a world- class manufacturing plant for all construction elements required for any building. Our KEF Industrial Park, situated in Krishnagiri, Tamil Nadu consists of 5 factories (given below) with state-of-the-art technologically advanced machineries from which, we deliver buildings with complete finish just ready to install at site.

Factories in KEF Industrial Park:

1) Pre-cast Building

2) Pre-Fabricated Bath Rooms (PODs)

3) Joinery and Fit-outs

4) Aluminium Glazing and uPVC Windows & Doors

5) Stone Processing

GlAzING FACTORy

42 | KEF Chronicles

Aluminium Glazing and uPvC Windows & DoorsAs everybody agrees, “The First Impression is the Best Impression”, the very first look of any building is its exterior. Civil construction creates the skeleton of the building which needs to be well-groomed to give a smart / beautiful / impressive and unique look. In other words, making ordinary into amazing wonders.

To create an admirable look to the building, we make the façade in our Aluminium Glazing factory with the state-of-the-art machineries. With high end technological advanced machines, we eliminate human errors / flaws into the façade elements and give an astonishing shape and look to the building. All the machineries are from FOM, Italy, which is considered as the motherland of architecture.

Our following production line for Aluminium Glazing and uPVC windows & doors systems are one of its kind in India as nobody else has such a complete set-up anywhere.

Machines comprising Aluminium Glazing Production Line:1) CNC Double Mitre Saw – Keope

2) 4 axis CNC Machining Centre – Axle

3) Notching Saw Machine – Graule

4) Corner Crimping Machine – Baiha

5) End Milling Machine – Mistral 26

6) Copy Router Machine – Matisse

7) Automatic Cleat Cutting Machine – Mirage

8) Roller Conveyor system for Panel Assembly and Glazing

9) Forklike Side Loader for material handling in narrow aisle – Combilift, Ireland

10) Motorized Vacuum Glass Lifter for easy handling of Glasses – Packline, UK

Machines comprising uPvC Windows & Doors Line:1) CNC Double Mitre Saw – Blitz Alva

2) CNC Machining Centre – Dali 70

3) Automatic Screw Driver – AF1

4) CNC Corner Welding and Cleaning Machine – Linea45

5) “V” Cutting Machine – Verticut

6) Corner Welding Machine – Link 1T

7) Glazing Bead Cutting Machine – TR65

8) Stretch Film Wrapping Machine - Kamp

Oct’15 | 43

PROJECT DOCUMENT CONTROl

Ajikumar S Pillai

Document Controlling is an important part of a construction project. That means the controlling of all project documents as per the company’s document control procedure. Document preparation, preparation of the track records for all project

documents, review, submission, receiving & distribution, filing and uploading the documents through electronic media are the main part of Document Controlling.

DOCUMENT CONTROl

44 | KEF Chronicles

ISO means International Organisation of Standardisation. It is a systematic method of office administration especially for Document Controlling. This system is originated from USA.

It is a preliminary document of a project issued by the Client as per their requirements. On the basis of these documents the main contractor should submit their contract & quotation to the Client. Tender Drawings, Specification & Bill of Quantities are the main tender documents.

Client ➔ Consultant ➔ Contractor ➔ Sub-Contractors ➔ Suppliers (In some special cases the client will appoint a project management group for their engineering works)

Tender Documents ➔ Feed Documents ➔ Engineering Documents ➔ Construction Documents ➔ Handing Over Documents.

drawings are mainly classified as four types: Tender Drawings, Construction Drawings, Workshop Drawings & As Built Drawings. The main Drawing formats are A0, A1, A2, A3 and A4. Tender Drawings & Construction Drawings are issued by Client but Workshop Drawings are prepared by the contractor and should be submitted to the Consultant or Client for their approval. Once they approve these drawings the contractor can start the work. As built drawing is the final drawing of a project and also the part of a handing over documents.

Prequalification means the technical quality of previous works. A contractor should submit the prequalification document to the Client before the commencement of their works.

It is a procedure of construction as per the client’s specification and bill of quantities. Contractor should submit the details of quality and quantity of construction raw materials to the Client for their approval. Contractor can apply only approved materials on site.

Method Statement is a statement for Site Work. The main contractor should submit the whole details of specified works on site regarding the kind of material, how to start the works, manpower, details machineries & safety precautions for the Clients approval. This document is known as Method Statement.

Technical Query (TQ) means question. If the contractor has any doubt related to the site work, then they can ask questions to the Client through Technical Query for clearance. There are two kinds of technical queries: Site Technical Query (STQ) & Engineering Technical Query (ETQ). It is also called Request For Information (RFI).

Isometric means having equal dimensions. It denotes a method of perspective drawing in which the three principal dimensions are represented by three axis 120� a part. It is a transformation without the change of shape or size.

As Built Drawings, Operation and Maintenance (O&M) Manuals, Spare Parts List, Completion Certificate, Warranty Certificates & Soft Copies of all Approved Project Documents & Drawings are the handing over documents. The main contractor should submit these documents as per the Client’s requirements.

As Built Drawings are the final drawings of a project, it shows what are the works done by the contractor on site as per the Client’s requirements. In future they will use these drawings for maintenance or extension.

ISO Standard

Tender Documents

project Life Cycle

Document Control Life Cycle

Kinds of Drawings

Prequalification

Material Submittal

Method Statement

technical Query

Isometric Drawing

Handing Over Documents

as Built Drawings

Oct’15 | 45

Importance of Document Control in a businessDocument Control is an outstanding part of an established business organisation. It helps in the day-to-day monitoring of business functions and activates like correspondence, coordination with various departments, tracking of documents and proper & safe keeping of confidential documents.

Document Control features in the infrastructural industryProper co-ordination with Client, Contractors & Vendors and smooth functioning of communication.

Process we follow in the documentation division1. Follow the Document Control Procedure

2. Follow the Document Numbering Procedure

3. Follow proper distribution

4. All Documents should go through only Document Controller

5. Everything should be in Record

6. To keep both Hard & Soft Copies

How document control helps other departments in-house?Easy to find the various documents and helps in proper co-ordination with other departments.

Introduction to the KEF Infra document control team:

mr. Dileep Sr. Document Controller KEF Infra/KEF Holdings

mr. ajikumar Sr. Document Controller KEF Infra Bangalore Office

mr. C navaneethan Document Controller KEF Industrial park – Krishnagiri

mr. sreevalsan Document Controller KEF Infra – PMHP Hospital project – Calicut

46 | KEF Chronicles

JOINERY SOlUTIONS

KEF Infra Joinery is one of the precise, dependable and the best modern technology facility available to

produce high quality wooden furniture, doors and other wood based solutions.

To achieve norms of Green building requirement, raw materials like timber/wood specious are selected from the lot grown for the purpose. Furthermore materials are sourced globally from reputed manufactures who are environment conscious, this gives us an advantage from other wooden manufacturers.

KEF Infra Research and development in-house has the required testing facility to make sure finished products meet the project specified standards.

It is a one point solution to achieve finished products under one roof without involving external agencies. ERP system have been providing us more accurate and flawless planning, procurement, manufacturing and execution of the projects on time with high quality finishes.

With latest computerised technology; material selection, cutting, routing, drilling and surface finishing are achieved for the different type of furniture products. Barcoding system can identify the products at any given stage of manufacturing efficiently, including packing and dispatching the furniture to respective projects on time.

Prabu Loganathan

Highly advanced machines from Germany, Italy, Spain and Austria are installed in Semi-automatised KEF Infra Joinery factory for prompt and swift furniture manufacturing.

Expert and experienced trainers in the wood industry are training technicians at KEF Infra Joinery Training Centre based on their respective operational skills.

KEF Infra Joinery is joining hands with pre-cast and aluminium glazing to give finished products to its customers under one roof.

jOINERy SOlUTIONS

Oct’15 | 47

KEF HOldINgS Regus One Raffles Place,1 Raffles Place Tower 1, Level 24,Singapore 048616Email: info@kefholdings.com

THE KEF COMpANy lTd.Office 501, Precinct Bldg 5,Dubai International FinancialCentre (DIFC), Dubai, UAEEmail: kef@thekefcompany.com

FAIzAl & SHABANA FOUNdATIONNo.34, Ground Floor, Embassy Diamante,Vittal Mallya RoadBangalore, Karnataka - 560001, Indiainfo@faizalshabana.org+91 80 4902 7000

KEF INFRASTRUCTURE INdIA pVT. lTd.No.34, Ground Floor, Embassy Diamante,Vittal Mallya Road,Bangalore – 560001 Karnataka, India

KEF MANAgEMENT CONSUlTANCy FzEShop No. S-3, Hamriyah Free Zone,Sharjah, UAE

KEF INdUSTRIAl pARK231/A, 232/A Kurubarapalli Post,Vinayakapuram Village, Krishnagiri Taluk,Krishnagiri-635001Tamil Nadu

KEF TAHpI design Studio407, 4th Floor, Building 25,Dubai Healthcare City,Dubai, UAE

KEF Modular (FzE)Jabel Ali Free ZoneDubai, UAE

CONTACT US

48 | KEF Chronicles