Play on
Usha Albuquerque

For those who love to combine business with pleasure, the growing gaming industry could just be what they are looking for. The Indian gaming industry, it is estimated, will be worth $300 million by 2010

Sunit just didn’t like studies; he spent all his time playing video games. Therefore, it didn’t come as a surprise when he failed his first attempt at the Class XII board exams. Although Sunit may not have had any interest in conventional studies, his creative abilities and strong logical skills and passion for computer games enabled him to take up a good computer games design training programme after school. Five years later, he is working with a game design company, waiting for a patent on a new game he has developed.

Video games are no longer looked upon as child’s play. Walk into any video games outlet, and you will see not only lively 15 year olds, but also young adults checking out the latest versions of Sims or Nintendo Wii. Video games are big business, and currently a multi-billion dollar industry that covers games on computer, video and mobiles. So if you have ever dreamt of a job that is just fun and games – this is it.

What does a game designer do?

Games are used for entertainment, training or education. Some of the most popular games are shooting, racing, commanding, escaping, stunts, trading, gambling, role playing, solving puzzles and educational games. A career in video game designing is an extended form of software development. Game designing involves designing the content and rules of the game. The term refers to both game design represented in the actual game, and documentation describing the design of the game.

Game designing, therefore, requires professionals of different areas such as those that handle the co-ordination of game mechanics, programming specialists, creative people from the visual arts, production process, etc.

Game programmers create the codes necessary for getting video games to function. This involves complex functions and algorithms which are very challenging. Those working on the visual aspects of the game, i.e. the pictures and character animation, draw the figures with a three-dimensional outline on the computer. After that, the surface parameters are applied and then the animation is done. Once that is complete, the image is rendered on the computer. Those handling game development are responsible for coordinating the mechanics of ensuring the game works according to the rules programmed.

A video games tester needs to check out the viability of the game. This job involves playing the newly created video games to make sure that it works according to the rules programmed. He/she tries to find out the errors or bugs that then get rectified before the game is brought into the market.

Video game designers are also responsible for improving the game and the experience of playing a particular game. The game designer also tries to make new and unique games which can become popular.

Getting into the business

There are a number of certificate and diploma courses for learning computer game design and development. Most courses are computer programming courses which also include modules on game programming. C++ is a basic language used for the development of most of the video games, and there are short certificate courses in C++ Video game programming that include many topics for setting up advanced data structures for gaming. Other courses suitable for this field include the certificate course in NET game programming, which covers the topics required for the development of XNA-based games and the Microsoft XNA Game Studio 2.0, which includes the XNA Framework, a major tool for game development.

These courses are offered by well-known institutes in India, including Animation Training Centre in Hyderabad, National Institute of Design in Ahmedabad, Digital Academy Film School in Mumbai and Image College of Arts, Animation & Technology in Chennai, Asian Academy of Film & Television, AAG in Noida, etc. There are also undergraduate and post-graduate level degree/diploma training courses in art, design, or visual communication, which includes training in animation and game design. The NID offers a 2½-year PG diploma in animation design, and toy and game design.

Prerequisites for the job

Along with the specialised skills for creating new video games, you also require to have an inborn artistic and creative ability, a strong imagination,

Attention to detail, exceptional visualising abilities, and loads of perseverance. Good problem-solving skills are another important requirement, as there are so many potential hitches that can come up when designing a new game. It goes without saying that you should also love playing video games and know how to recognise what makes a game popular and fun to play.

The increasing popularity of video games is one indication of the growth of jobs in this field. NASCOM has reported that Indian gaming industry is expected to reach $300 million by 2010. Today there are wide variety of games available on mobile phones, online computer games and video games — such as Checkers, Chess, etc. — along with betting games, casino-based games, strategy games, arcade games like racing, shooting and sport games, puzzles, card and word games like anagrams, crosswords, etc.

There are a number of companies such as Synapse, Smackall, Ishir Infotech, Csharks, etc. that design games for all uses.

So if you’ve always been told that playing video games is a waste of time, now you can make a career out of what you love doing – and earn your living. Have fun playing games!

Career Hotline
Pervin Malhotra

Maths must to become an astronaut

Q. I have just got my class 12th class (PCM) result. I want to become astronaut, so I want to take admission in aeronautical engineering. I am not very good in studies and also do not like maths much. Is it necessary to be good in study or maths for becoming an astronaut?

— Paresh Gambhir

A. Aeronautical Engineering is all about the design, construction and maintenance of commercial as well as military aircraft and even satellites, spacecraft and missiles.

It includes the study of fluid dynamics, material science, structural analysis, propulsion and electronics.

Technologically speaking, this is one of the most advanced branches of engineering. At the Bachelor’s level, the course would cover the study of fluid dynamics, thermodynamics, and gas dynamics, material science, structural analysis, propulsion, acoustics and electronics.

You can further specialise in aerodynamics, thermodynamics, propulsion, structures, celestial machines, acoustics and guidance and control systems.

Yes you do need to be good in studies as well as in maths to pursue this as well as any of the advanced fields of engineering. If you want to be an astronaut, a mere BTech won’t suffice. So you must enjoy studying to be able to pursue higher studies. But if you are passionate about a field and find it interesting, the urge to study will automatically arise. Remember, success is 99 per cent perspiration and 1 per cent inspiration. It’s just a matter of developing a habit of discipline, practice and perseverance. And it’s never too late to start.

Besides the IITs, BE/BTech courses in Aeronautical/Aerospace Engineering are offered at several institutions in the North like: Punjab Engineering College (PEC), (Deemed University), Chandigarh 160012 (www.pec.ac.in) Eligibility: 10+2 with English, physics, chemistry and maths as subjects. Selection: AIEEE scores. National Institute of Aeronautical Engineering,Dehradun (Utt) Course: BTech (Aeronautical)  Eligibility: Class XII (PCM) Indian Institute of Aircraft Engineering, A 191, Mahipalpur Extn, Rd No. 4, Lane No. 8, National Highway–8, New Delhi 110037 (www.iiae.net) J. R. N. Rajasthan Vidyapeeth (Deemed University) (www.jrnrvduniversity.com). Amity University, NOIDA (www.amity.edu) Rajiv Gandhi Memorial College of Aeronautics, Opp. Sanganer Airport, Jaipur 302011 However from July 2009, IGNOU has introduced a BTech (Aeronautical Engg) (4-yr). Do check out the details on their website:www.ignou.ac.in)

IGNOU offers BA in 3D animation

Nearly 200 medical colleges offer PG courses

Entry into IARI through written test only

Know where you are going

OFFICE Mantra
Are you a successful manager?
DC Sharma

An effective manager knows how to bring out best from his subordinates. What sets him apart from others is his ability to put the message across his team firmly without leaving hurt egos behind

Jacob and Nandan were simultaneously appointed managers. Over a period of time, Jacob proved to be very successful, while Nandan an utter failure. Wherein lies the secret of such a vast difference in their performances is a question of concern!

Actually their behaviour and dealings with their subordinates had made all the difference! Jacob would always pat even his weak subordinate with the encouraging words: “ I am proud of you. You’ve got the potential! We wouldn’t have done this part of the work without your cooperation...!” And the worker in question would really work wonders to show his real worth next time.

On the other hand, Nandan would always find faults even with a sincere and hard working subordinate. He would always say: “ I am sorry. You have got no worth. You always make mistakes...!”

After a short time Jacob was promoted by virtue of his distinguished output. But Nandan was asked to explain the reasons of his downfall. His output had fallen far below the expectations of his seniors.

Management consultant and business writer James K Van Fleet’s bestseller “The 22 biggest mistakes managers make and how to correct them” is astounding. It spins out why employees hate their bosses. But a simple application of human psychology can transform that hatred into affection and everlasting relationships in business matters.

The manager who shouts at his employees even when they are doing their best is a sure failure. And the one who stands by his employees, encourages them even whey they are at the verge of failure can certainly turn a failure into success. Such is the power of saying “Bravo!”

A psychological study has revealed that only 25 per cent of subordinates criticised in front of others showed signs of improvement in their next attempt, while 75 per cent of them did very well when criticised in private. Such is the psyche of we humans. And a successful manager knows the knack of this wonder!

Instead of shouting at his weak subordinates, a successful manager gives them a patient hearing. He knows that a weak subordinate when given an affectionate pat makes more effort and that too sincerely. More concerted efforts made in the right direction enhance his output. And the result is an added boost to the salary not only of that subordinate but of the manager too!

An inefficient manager usually criticises his subordinates for faults, which he himself doesn’t have. This is not a way to help the subordinate. Is this not a way to build one’s own self images on a heap of sand which may collapse any moment? This is just to justify his mistakes to make other’s seem much worse.

A competent manager knows when not to criticise. He criticises his employees without naming anyone. He doesn’t believe in punishment but believes only in enhancing performance. In order to enhance their output a successful manager criticises the wrong act rather than the wrong person. He points out a single wrong act at a time.

Rather than saying how A or B has done a wrong act, he often says: “When I used to be a subordinate, I too would commit such a mistake...” But at the same time he would tell elaborately how he had successfully corrected his wrong act.

Such an advice to one’s employees always hits the nail on the head. And the whole system of an organisation is properly geared.

A successful manager never poses to be a hard taskmaster. Rather he looks like a kind friend, always listening, always cooperating, always patting, and always granting more allowance to the ones who really go an extra mile. Such a motivation not only encourages the one being benefited but also other employees to follow in the footsteps of the benefited one.

A successful manager is not an angel from heaven but a human being at the helm of affairs who knows how and when to strike the iron!

Get book-ed for life

It is said that there is the idea of a book in everyone and it is the ingenuity of a publisher to bring it out. So, those who love reading books can turn their interest into a worthwhile career

Do you enjoy reading books and can you usually tell which book will click in the market? If yes, then a career as a book publisher might just be right for you.

These days book publishing courses have become one of the most sought after career options for youngsters, with many institutes and universities offering these, say experts.

“There is a lot of potential in book publishing as a career option. And that’s why these days the courses are very much in demand,” says Piyush Kumar, director of the Delhi-based Prabhat Prakashan. The publishing house comes out with educational books for both children and adults.

“In fact, this is the best time to get into this field as the government is putting a lot of resources in the education ministry and is promoting skilled education,” Kumar adds.

Two-year courses are offered at Calcutta University, the Delhi-based National Book Trust, Annamalai University in Chennai, Delhi Univeristy’s College of Vocational Studies, Mahatma Gandhi University in Kerala and Indira Gandhi National Open University.

The Delhi-based Institute of Book Publishing also conducts short courses for graduates in proofreading and editing, besides publishing management.

Generally a publishing course includes editing, production, design and layout, sales and marketing, electronic publishing, book promotion and a lot more for one to explore.

Gulshan Rai, chairman of the famous Diamond Comics, feels such courses help in understanding the editorial aspects.

“In a publishing house, the editorial department is one of the most important departments as it deals with the making of a book from the manuscript stage to what finally appears on the book shelves in the market,” he says.

RK Bajaj, an administration official from the College of Vocational Studies in Delhi University, said its publishing course has become very popular. “We offer a post-graduate diploma in book publishing and the response from students every year is overwhelming. We have 50 seats in all for this course and we also provide students with placement assistance with leading publishing houses in the country,” Bajaj adds.

One such diploma holder is Ramanand Thakur, who is now chief editor with Ramesh Publishing House, which brings out educational books. After his graduation in physics, he did a two-year course in book publishing.

“After doing my graduation in physics, I realised my interest actually lies in the field of publishing, so I enrolled in the Delhi University course. I started the two-year diploma in 2005 and I specialised in editing. Soon after I passed I got the job,” says Thakur.

But it’s not just editorial content that is taught in these courses. Some institutes also train students in advertising and design.

“The publishing industry today is much more vibrant; there are more readers and many more out there who are buying books. The advertising and graphic design course that we offer includes publishing as a subject,” says Deepti Baveja, national academic head in the advertising and graphic design department in Wigan and Leigh College India (WLCI), which has branches all over the country.

Darya Ganj, the old quarter of Delhi, houses over 500 small and big publishing houses. According to Sukumar Das, a veteran publisher, who used to work with the Federation of Indian publishers, there are 16,000 book publishers in India.

Usha Albuquerque, a career counsellor and former television presenter, says she has received many calls from students who want to pursue the course as prospects in publishing have increased in the past few years.

“The scope of a career in this field is great. This is not the most lucrative of careers but an entrant can expect a salary of around Rs 5,000-8,000 per month,” Albuquerque said. — IANS

Design your virtual world
Puneet Sharma

Behind the construction of many palatial buildings, bridges, flyovers, etc., there is a strong contribution of CAD professionals. Their digital designs not only reduce errors but also help in bringing dream structure into reality

Imagine entering the presidential suite of a luxury hotel and feeling the grandeur of the ambience, recreate it with your own artistic vision – all with the click of your mouse. All these and much more novel creations are possible in the virtual world. Digital architecture is one aspect of the virtual world wherein one can design and decorate any kind of architectural monument, building, infrastructure, etc. through computer-aided design (CAD).

CAD uses both visual as well as symbol-based method of communication pertaining to a specific technical field. Drafting or technical drawing can be done in either 2D or 3D. Right from conceptualisation of design to layout of products, dynamic analysis of assemblies and manufacturing methods of components, CAD helps designers to develop work on screen. This is also cost effective as it gives the freedom to save it for future editing, to take print outs and send it via email. It is, thus, used widely by engineers, architects and interior designers to produce pieces of architectural work. Its very essential nature and vast application makes it a recession proof option.

CAD makes artwork more realistic by adding 3D to the 2D drawings and lighting effects. The whole thing is then animated to get the photo realistic architectural walkthroughs.

“CAD makes it possible to actually show an elevator or lift in a moving condition in the design itself. This makes the construction process very smooth predicting the probable faults and complications,” says Anuj Kacker, global head, Arena Animation.

Advantages of CAD for digital architecture:

• Offers the opportunity to preview realistic interior lighting;
• Photo realistic life-like materials can be displayed;
• Moving elements, including lifts, escalators, etc., can be incorporated and shown in operational condition;
• One can explore multiple colour schemes and design options;
• Reduces errors and enables one to design everything — layouts, structures, complex mechanical details, etc. It also helps to produce accurate calculations computing angles, curves and lengths;
• Helps to produce any type of drafting (drawing) using delete-able construction points. It also enables to locate reference points easily; and
• Testing of product before actual manufacture.

One can create 3D models of space, building, walls, furniture, etc. and also be able to present designs from different angles through AutoCAD.

Use of digital architecture

Plan layout for buildings and malls: One gets to see amazingly beautiful structures of buildings these days. May it be malls, shopping complex, residential houses, hospitals, etc. all are designed digitally as it gives the freedom to explore with creative ideas and innovations with very less expenditure and time.

Bridges and roads: Construction of roads, bridges, flyovers, etc. calls for extensive study, research and good planning as it involves the public mode of conveyance and safety. Stringent safety measures need to be taken before construction of the same. Moreover, these are huge structures and involves big amount of money. Digital architecture through CAD makes the planning and designing process quite simpler and cheaper.

Corporate presentations: Digital architecture is extremely useful for all kinds of corporate presentations. It provides the opportunity for last minute changes, corrections and improvements. Presentations can be prepared at a short notice.

Product designing: Through CAD one can design every component of a product right through its manufacturing stage up to the final output.

Glass designing: CAD is increasingly being used today for stained glass designing. It helps in keeping the designs square, to get an accurate blow up of the design, maintain accuracy of the design on the glass, change colour combinations and saving designs for future use.

Training and career

CAD is a new age design tool that has revolutionised the design industry. It is increasingly being used by architects, builders, engineers and interior designers as well as by the film and fashion industry. One can begin with a job of a monthly package of Rs 20,000-25,000, which may go up to over a lakh per month. An enterprising CAD professional can set up his own firm and take up projects with limited investments. One can create job opportunities for others.

Training and practice are the sole ingredients to succeed as a CAD professional.

“At Arena Animation we offer specialised training in designing through 3D Studio Max. This training offers good prospects for growth. A working professional can also take this training to enhance his skills,” says Kacker. Besides Arena Animation, other institutes which offer this training are NID, Ahmedabad , IIT, Mumbai and School of Architecture, Delhi

So, all you need is just get equipped with the right kind of training to design a successful career as a CAD professional.

The writer is technical advisor with Arena Animation

The meltdown
Handicrafts exports shaping up

New Delhi: With fresh enquiries beginning to pour in from the US and EU, Indian handicrafts exports, one of the worst sufferers of the economic meltdown, is likely to enter the positive terrain in the next two months, giving hope to artisans who had lost their jobs.

After contracting by an alarming rate of 48 per cent in 2008-09, exports of handmade items have shown an improvement in the first month of this fiscal.

“Every day we are getting fresh orders. This is mainly because inventories in the US have started drying up... We are confident that by July-August, we will see a positive growth rate... the growth may not be very huge,” Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts (ECPH) Chairman RK Malhotra told PTI.

He is also confident that the job scenario in the sector, which has witnessed about five lakh retrenchments of its over one-million work force in the last one year, would improve at an equally faster pace.

The EPCH is betting high on the new UPA government support to the artisans, who contribute to the country’s exports from as varied areas as Moradabad in Uttar Pradesh and Narsapur in Andhra Pradesh. “Infrastructure is one area where we are expecting the government to pay special attention,” Malhotra said.

As demand for items like metalware, imitation jewellery, wooden items and wall hangings came down in the recession-hit western stores, their exports from India began contracting. In March alone the dip was a massive 71 per cent, clocking just $1.7 million of sales.

Over 25 per cent of the total handicrafts exports, mainly from major clusters like Moradabad, Jaipur, Jodhpur, Shararanpur and Narsapur, go to the US. Germany contributes 14 per cent while the UK accounts for 10 per cent of the exports kitty. — PTI

The meltdown
BPO, ITES jobs see decline

New Delhi: Corporate India’s hiring activity saw a decline in April, with the BPO and IT enabled services industry registering the sharpest drop of 22 per cent, a report by job portal Naukri.com says.

Naukri.com’s JobSpeak index fell 4.7 per cent to 677 in April compared to 711 in March, but the drop was not that sharp as in the previous month, the report said.

“In the past we have always seen a slight slowdown in hiring in the months of April/May when companies get busy with planning for the year,” Info Edge (India) Hitesh Oberoi COO and director said.

BPO and ITES were was most severely affected industries, which saw a sharp drop of 22 per cent in hiring activity in April, even as most of the other industries saw a marginal drop when compared to March, the report revealed.

The insurance sector saw a decline for the second consecutive month, with hiring witnessing a dip of 11 per cent, compared to March 2009.

Meanwhile, banking and financial services saw an improvement in hiring activity by 4 per cent.

Hiring in IT, construction and engineering, auto and auto ancillaries sectors moved down marginally by 2 per cent, the report added. — PTI