Author: OmD

Architects do not only create; they conserve as well. Architectural conservation is an important element in the realm of modern architecture. Although it has been promoted for years now (the preservation of ancient structures specifically gained momentum during the 18th and 19th centuries), it finds great relevance in the current context of the world.

What is architectural conservation?

By definition, it ‘describes the process by which the material, historical and design durability of man-built architectural history is prolonged to last longer and be able to sustain difficult conditions or be kept sustainable in general’. Architectural heritages need preservation to escape the side effects caused by natural disasters like earthquakes and floods as well as simple changes in climate. Pollution and climatic changes, too, wreak havoc when it comes to heritage architecture. Even tourism sometimes proves to be extremely destructive to architectural marvels – tourists bring in greater humidity and water presence, resulting in erosion and damage. The ‘Egyptian Tomb of Seti’ and the ‘Pyramids at Giza’ are examples of heritage landmarks that have been adversely affected by the increase in tourism.

Conservation techniques

The primary step for any conservation project is a sensitive assessment of the history and merits of the concerned site or building. Upon completion of the assessment, a thorough measured survey with a tape, rod and level is conducted. Modern methods like photogrammetry (the use of aerial photographs) are also used.

Some of the commonly-employed methods of conservation used by architects involve the following:

  • Preservation: This essentially involves retaining all the materials added to a building during its lifetime and work is only completed when it is ‘essential to prevent deterioration of the site’.
  • Rehabilitation: This ‘emphasizes the retention and repair of historic materials but more latitude is provided for replacement because it is assumed the property is deteriorated more before work’.
  • Restoration: In this process, architects focus on the retention of materials from the most significant time in a property’s history, while permitting the removal of other materials from other periods.
  • Reconstruction: This process establishes ‘limited opportunities to recreate a non-surviving site, landscape, building, structure or object in all new materials.’

Building a better tomorrow

Since its inception in 2010, the NAAC-accredited and MAKAUT-affiliated OmDayal Group of Institutions has emerged as one of the leading architecture colleges in West Bengal. The institute boasts of strong management, experienced faculty members and a robust learning environment.

The full-time B.Arch course offered by us, completely at par with global standards, has been generating top-notch architects since its introduction in the year 2012. It is approved by AICTE and COA respectively to ensure the students can build a solid foundation in the subject. The course aims to take the education of architecture beyond the realms of buildings and propel it into developing a sustainable future. Our students are trained to question the pre-supposed and seek novel and contemporary solutions in line with the modern tenets of architecture.

For more information, visit www.omdayal.com.

Undeniably emerging as one of the most influential and powerful technological advancement today, Machine Learning has paved the way from information to knowledge. In the last 50 years, we have witnessed an explosion of data. This ginormous data is jargon, until we learn to analyse and find recurring patterns hidden within. This is where the wide subject of Machine Learning comes in – it identifies the underlying patterns within complex data that humans are incapable of understanding. These hidden patterns can be used to predict future events and perform all kinds of complex decision-making, without human interference. In other words, it is ‘the study of computer algorithms that can improve automatically through experience and the use of data’.

Relevant to our daily lives

We are probably unaware of the fact that we are already using Machine Learning while performing our daily activities. It is the driving mechanism whether we are looking for information on Google or any other search engine, using an application to listen to songs and even for online shopping. It is constantly “learning” and “improving” from every single interaction that it has with us, from showing us a possible list of search options, or guessing the mood for our music playlist or even displaying options for e-commerce. Additionally, Machine Learning is also the technology associated with world-changing inventions like detecting cancer, creating new life-altering drugs and self-driving vehicles.

Offering ample Career opportunities

Specializingin Artificial Intelligence and other disruptive technology can lead to successful careers as Data Analysts, Data Scientists as well as Machine Learning Engineers. While a data analyst works with enormous amounts of data and produces actionable insights, a data scientist is a creative researcher who carries out experiments with data and models. Machine Learning Engineers on the other hand are ‘tech specialists’ who design, maintain and upgrade AI systems on which these models operate. They have to develop an all-round understanding of the entire ecosystem that they will be designing the application for. For example, if working for a clothing chain, if the company wants to generate targeted coupons according to previously purchased items, the engineer has to collect the historical data, perform the analysis, figure out trends and then propose strategies. The machine learning approach would then be used to write an automated coupon generation system. To make the algorithm work, the engineer also has to understand the whole ecosystem of technology vis-à-vis the inventory, catalogue, pricing, purchase orders, bill generation, Point of Sale software used as well as the CRM software.

Pre-requisites for a career in Machine Learning

  • Computer Science: Having sound knowledge of data structures, coding, algorithms and computer architecture are a must. The engineer must be able to apply these technologies to use and even troubleshoot if there are errors.
  • Mathematics: A clear understanding of statistics and probability is mandatory. Understanding of concepts viz. conditional probability, Bayes Rule, likelihood, independence and techniques derived from it are of utmost importance.
  • Data modelling and evaluation: The idea is to discover the hidden patterns in a sea of data. Using correlations, clusters, eigenvectors and predicting properties of previously unseen instances with classification, regression and anomaly detection are an integral part of the job.
  • Machine Learning Algorithms and Libraries: Implementations of Machine Learning algorithms through libraries, packages or APIs such as Theano, Spark MLlib, H2O, TensorFlow and applying them effectively is an important skill. Understanding how to fit the data with linear regression, gradient descent, genetic algorithms, bagging, boosting and comprehending hyper-parameters is also another critical aspect for a successful career as a Machine Learning engineer.
  • Software Engineering with System Design: Since the responsibility of the engineer is to provide an Artificial Intelligence software that automatically derives user behaviour, understanding of software and systems is very vital. Communicating with the modules of the programme is also of paramount importance.

We stand for quality education

The NAAC-accredited and MAKAUT-affiliated OmDayal Group of Institutions is responsible for churning out young engineers equipped to face the ever-changing landscape of disruptive technologies such as Machine Learning. The industry-centric engineering courses offered by us include:

  • Civil Engineering
  • Electrical Engineering
  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Computer Science and Engineering

The niche training and skills required for bagging engineering jobs both in India and abroad has inspired us to continuously upgrade the teaching and learning curriculum in sync with global standards. We empower our students with a competitive edge and required aptitudes to excel in the new-age technology spectrum. Our facilities include flexible timings and partnership with National Small Industries Corporation (NSIC) to provide on-job training and relevant placement opportunities.

For more information, visit www.omdayal.com.

Mathematics is an integral part of the process of Architecture. In fact, for architects, application of Maths is quite unique when it concerns intrinsic concepts like ‘Golden Ratio’ and ‘parametric design’. Geometry, Algebra and Trigonometry play a critical role in architectural design. The ‘probability of issues’ is important to be considered while preparing a blueprint or an initial design sketch for any new construction. Even simple fundamentals like addition, subtraction, multiplication, division and working with fractions fall under the purview of regular work in the realm of architecture. Therefore, a strong foundation in Mathematics is definitely the cornerstone for a flourishing career as an architect.

Historical reference

Since ancient times, Mathematics has been an integral part of Architecture. In 300 B.C. the famous Greek mathematician Euclid defined a mathematical law of nature called the ‘Golden Ratio’. Till date, architects employ this formula to design proportions and create architectural marvels. In fact, this concept has come to be known as the ‘Golden Constant’ nowadays since it is relevant at all times for any architect working across the globe.

Essential number-crunching

Let us enumerate some of the basic ways by which architects use Mathematics for their day-to-day work.

  • Conversion of units: Constantly dealing with areas and heights, conversion of units is one of the basic ways by which Mathematics play a key role in Architecture. Architects have to constantly convert length in centimetres to metres and metres to kilometres, as well as calculate areas by converting from inches to feet and square feet to acres.
  • Scaling: A key element of architectural design is scaling of any project, a graphical representation of real-time distance and height. Calculating a drawing’s measurements to scale requires sound knowledge of different units as well as cross-multiplication.
  • Working with ‘proportions’: Proportions refer to ratios between numbers which require in-depth knowledge of Mathematical concepts. We all know how accurate proportions hold the key to the success of any architectural project.
  • Composing ‘Bill of Quantities’: In architectural terminology, a ‘Bill of Quantity’ refers to a complete list of all the components of a building, such as the final number of bricks, total quantity of aluminium frames, amount of paint needed, etc. Mathematics is involved here to calculate perimeters, areas and volumes and matching them to consequent pricing.
  • Creation of Parametric Designs: ‘Parametric design’ is a novel concept that has attained immense popularity in the profession today. The concept entails a method that uses algorithms along with a set of parameters to create unique geometrical forms. All the architectural parts of a structure are represented by mathematically-defined components that can be modified through formulas and equations.

Building a better tomorrow

Since its inception in 2010, the NAAC-accredited and MAKAUT-affiliated OmDayal Group of Institutions has emerged as one of the leading architecture colleges in West Bengal. The full-time B.Arch course offered by us, completely at par with global standards, has been generating top-notch architects since its introduction in the year 2012. The course aims to take the education of architecture beyond the realms of buildings and propel it into developing a sustainable future. Our students are trained to question the pre-supposed and seek novel and contemporary solutions in line with the modern tenets of architecture.

For more information, visit www.omdayal.com

Data is generated at a whirlwind speed today and has crossed the human threshold capacity of analysis – it is today considered to be the mainstay for technological advancement! Artificial intelligence (AI) facilitates us to cope with this bulk information, analyse the data and employ the insights to improve decision-making. Commonly harnessed by policymakers, opinion leaders, observers, corporations and even democracies, AI is steadily impacting the world and is raising important questions for society, the economy and governance. The recent times have witnessed novel applications in the domains of finance, national security, healthcare, criminal justice, transportation and smart cities to resolve problems viz. data access, biases, data management and ethics and transparency. AI has proven to be the answer to such impending crises as it operates in an intentional, smart and adaptive manner.

The role of an AI engineer

An AI engineer builds models using their domain knowledge in machine learning algorithms and deep learning neural networks to draw insights that can be amalgamated to generate successful business decisions. AI engineers usually have profound understanding of programming, software engineering and data science. A recent study has concluded that Artificial Intelligence is one of the top strategic technology trends for 2021, thereby making AI engineering a “hot” career option to pursue.

Skills-sets for a career in AI

  • Proficiency in programming: Since AI requires humans to train machines to learn about data and the environment, understanding machine language is of prime importance. AI engineers need to be well-versed in programming languages such as Python, R, Java and C++ to successfully build models.
  • Understanding algorithms and frameworks: In-depth knowledge on machine learning algorithms like linear regression, KNN, Naive Bayes and Support Vector Machine helps implement AI models. For unstructured data, understanding deep learning algorithms viz. convolutional neural network, recurrent neural network and generative adversarial network is advisable. Common frameworks used by AI engineers include PyTorch, Theano, TensorFlow and Caffe. Thorough understanding of these algorithms and frameworks make AI simpler to decode and learn.
  • Master of advanced mathematics: A mathematical bent of mind can learn the nuances of AI quickly. Understanding of linear algebra, probability and statistics can help implement different AI models namely Hidden Markov models, Gaussian mixture models, Naive Bayes as well as linear discriminant analysis.
  • Expertise in communication and troubleshooting: Although these are skills required for almost all jobs today, communication is a must-have since AI engineers often have to pitch their ideas to stakeholders. The role might even involve detailed presentations to be given to the senior management. Excellent problem-solving skills are also a requisite.
  • Working with Spark and big data technologies: Since this job involves large volumes of data, AI engineers have to be conversant about Spark and other big data technologies. Hadoop, Cassandra and MongoDB are some domains that the engineer has to master.

We are a centre of excellence

The NAAC-accredited and MAKAUT-affiliated OmDayal Group of Institutions is responsible for churning out skilled engineers with a zeal for creativity and innovation. As the leading engineering college in West Bengal, the industry-centric engineering courses offered by us include:

  • Civil Engineering
  • Electrical Engineering
  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Computer Science and Engineering

The ever-changing technological landscape required for engineering jobs both in India and abroad has inspired us to continuously upgrade our teaching and learning methodology in sync with global standards. We empower each and every student with the competitive edge and required skills to perform confidently in the new-age technology domain. Our industry-oriented facilities include flexible timings and partnership with National Small Industries Corporation (NSIC) for on-job training and placement opportunities.

For more information, visit www.omdayal.com

A global trend in the wide domain of architecture is ‘sustainable architecture’. What exactly does it refer to? This genre seeks to minimize the negative environmental impact of buildings by efficiency and moderation in the use of materials, energy, development space and the ecosystem at large.

In the year 1987, the United Nations commissioned The Brundtland Report – ‘Our Common Future’ that described sustainable development as ‘one that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs’. Today, decades later, this definition stands more than relevant against the context of climate change and the drive to protect our Mother Earth. For example, builders worldwide have today reimagined workspaces using natural lights, shifted garden spaces to vertical garden walls and committed themselves to save water through the process of recycling.

Hugely relevant today

Although the concept of green buildings was introduced in the early 1970s to essentially combat rising petroleum prices, sustainable architecture as we understand it today, involves every aspect of the lifecycle of the buildings such as design, construction, operations, maintenance and renovation, including the end-of-life stage when the materials can be retrieved and recycled. It even entails the conservation of the immediate environment around the building site. While being functional and aesthetically superior, eco-friendly forms of architecture such as green buildings also have to be constructed with the singular mindset of achieving energy and resource efficiency.

Benefits galore

Let us enlist some of the futuristic advantages offered by sustainable architecture:

  • Conservation of the environment: A healthier environment is carved for the future with the employment of non-toxic paints, thinners and all-natural building materials.  High performance construction is prioritized with low maintenance and long-term durability, thereby ensuring conservation of the immediate surroundings.
  • Reduction in energy consumption: The shift to renewable energy systems, energy-efficient equipment, water-saving methods, rainwater harvesting and using natural lighting systems takes projects closer to their ‘Net Zero energy’ as well as low carbon footprint goals.
  • Better quality of living: The art of renovation, rehabilitation and constant adaptive re-use, building with local and organic materials, smart energy-saving technologies, resilient buildings built to withstand floods and storms, and invisible buildings designed to seamlessly blend with the natural landscape all go a long way in bolstering the overall standard of living.
  • Improvement of productivity in dwellers: Ongoing research states that employees or dwellers who work or live in green buildings have exhibited greater productivity. As a case study, after implementing green building features at Sherwin-Williams’ Centro-America headquarters in El Salvador, the company saw a 68% reduction in reported respiratory problems and a 64% reduction in reported allergy problems vis-a-vis their own workforce. “Additionally, since moving to the new building, employee absenteeism has reduced by 44%, and Sherwin-Williams has calculated a total annual saving of $85,000 annually.

Our institute has an eye on the future

As a leading engineering college in West Bengal, the NAAC-accredited and MAKAUT – affiliated OmDayal Group of Institutions has an impeccable track record of churning out young architects possessing a zeal for creativity and innovation. The industry-centric B.Arch course encourages the students to innovate and create projects that are compliant to all the modern and internationally-acclaimed architectural regulations and standards.

Bearing in mind the competitive market and the demands of sustainable architecture both in India and abroad, our college is reputed for continuously upgrading its teaching and learning curriculum in sync with global standards, to empower each and every student with a competitive edge as new-age technology professionals. Our facilities like flexible timings and partnership with National Small Industries Corporation (NSIC) to provide on-job training and excellent placement opportunities have helped our students greatly in their successful career pursuits to emerge as top-notch architects in the future.

For more information, visit www.omdayal.com

What is common between Indian entrepreneurs Sachin Bansal (Flipkart), Bhavish Aggarwal (Ola), Vijay Shekhar Sharma (Paytm), Deepinder Goyal (Zomato) and RichaKar (Zivame)? They are all engineer-turned-entrepreneurs who have done exceptionally well to earn global recognition for themselves. Ditto is the case with world-famous international businessmen like Bill Gates, Michael Bloomberg and Carlos Slim (who started their career as engineers). In fact, an interesting fact-file was provided by a recent survey of start-ups in India: 33% of entrepreneurs in the country have the backing of an engineering degree. So what are the plus points that engineers enjoy when they don the hat of entrepreneurs?

Advantage of Engineers

  • Analytical problem-solving skills: First and foremost, engineers bring to the table specific skill-sets that have been honed over years while managing projects and solving work-related problems. As problem solvers, they are equipped with the training and bandwidth to understand a wide array of possible solutions to any problem and coming up with the best solution.
  • Mathematical bent of mind: Since they are mathematically-inclined, foraying into the word of entrepreneurship is easier for them. It provides them with a better insight into the profitable viability of any innovation. Already being aware of important elements of number crunching, understanding the nuances to ensure profits in business are way simpler for them.
  • Team players: Since they always work as part of teams in projects as engineers, they are very aware of the important facets of team building such as co-operation, camaraderie, motivating others and effective delegation of work. After all, a strong and competent team is the hallmark of any successful organization.
  • Excellent planners: Their career-orientation in the realm of engineering makes them astute planners, thereby arming them with a strong head-start in the world of entrepreneurship. They are well-equipped with the nuances of the key elements of planning, namely market research, financial projections as well as the development of insightful business plans and strategies.
  • Strong technical knowhow: Technology dominating every aspect of our work lives now provides engineers with the advantage as they are truly ahead when it comes to technical expertise. Their in-depth understanding of any product development makes them great leaders!
  • Constant self-evaluating:  Proficient engineers constantly examine their projects or prototypes in order to offer better solutions. This whole mindset of continually evaluating their own performance as well as their company on the whole gives them the edge as entrepreneurs.

Chance to work on future technology: Engineering students get an opportunity to work on some of the latest technology like ‘Internet of things’, artificial Intelligence, drone technology, robotics, 3D printing, machine learning, cyber security, augmented/virtual reality, smart structure.

We facilitate promising youngsters to realize their dreams in engineering

As a leading engineering college in West Bengal, the NAAC-accredited and MAKAUT-affiliated OmDayal Group of Institutionsis responsible for churning out young engineers possessing a zeal for creativity and innovation. The industry-centric engineering courses offered by us include:

  • Civil Engineering
  • Electrical Engineering
  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Computer Science and Engineering

Bearing in mind the ever-changing technical skills required for engineering jobs both in India and abroad, our college is reputed for continuously upgrading its teaching and learning curriculum in sync with global standards, to empower each and every student with a competitive edge as new-age technology professionals. Our facilities like flexible timings and partnership with National Small Industries Corporation (NSIC) to provide on-job training and excellent placement opportunities have helped our students greatly in their successful career pursuits to emerge as top-quality engineers.

For more information, visit www.omdayal.com

Gone are the days when degrees in medicine and engineering were considered to be the only options for a successful future. Today, students are opting for more conventional courses and specializations and architecture has emerged as one of the more popular and lucrative career choices. Many bright young minds, displaying a flair for technology, science and creativity, are opting for this profession, with the vision to make significant contributions towards the society through sustainable constructions, energy efficient buildings and strategic city planning.

Why is it such a popular career choice?

According to experts in the industry, studying architecture provides students with ‘the opportunity to utilize education and expertise to contribute to the culture and narrative of any era’. Other highlights this career promises to provide include:

  • A sea of opportunities: Architecture as a discipline provides several potential career paths. Young professionals have the opportunity to pursue various specializations such as residential/ commercial architecture, landscape design, conservation and restoration architecture, urban planning, technical architecture and sustainable industrial design. The prospects are infinite, simultaneously facilitating the professionals to hone new skills along the journey.
  • Conversion of art to reality: Every profession yields a sense of satisfaction and the unique profession of architectures creates a visible and tangible landmark for the world to see and appreciate. For example, a life-changing building of your dreams comes true as you execute it with design, precision and exactness of mathematics. Could anything be more fulfilling? For top architects, the profession is a calling and not a job!
  • Versatile profession: Architecture is a versatile profession and allows one to be both creative and analytical in their approach. An architect with an analytical bent of mind may leverage his mathematical skills and specialize in calculations, geometry, floor plans etc. On the other hand, architects who lean towards art can unleash their creativity through drawings, sketches, and design.
  • Improving the overall quality of life: Architects are instrumental in bringing about dynamic lifestyle changes around the globe. With the concept of green living taking worldwide importance, the profession has become even more dynamic and challenging today. If you are someone who believes in rehabilitation and upkeep of the earth – this is your chance to make a difference!
  • High income potential: Architecture is among the highest paying skill-based professions. Young architects, with the right guidance and job opportunities can have a greater earning potential in with consistent growth in their career experience.

The growing demand for architects in India

In sync with the global demand, India too has a need for top-notch architects today for both government and private projects. The government-controlled Indian Brand Equity Foundation (IBEF) indicates that by 2040, the real estate industry will experience a staggering growth, touching Rs 65,000 crore from Rs 12,000 crore that was recorded in 2019. A continually growing population and perpetual need for the basic amenities promises to provide limitless opportunities to pursuing architecture as a career prospect. As the demand for buildings will never recede, architects will continue to explore the beauty of their architectural marvels.

Recent trends indicate that architects nowadays are not only working in conventional projects but are also heavily involved in urban planning, furniture design and even disaster relief. There are new-age muralists, landscape architects, restoration architects, and they constitute the most in-demand career avenues that aspiring architects are choosing to pursue!

The OmDayal Group of Institutions: Revolutionizing education

Since its inception in 2010, the NAAC-accredited and MAKAUT-affiliated OmDayal Group of Institutions has emerged as one of the leading architecture colleges in West Bengal. Also offering industry-centric courses in Engineering, our college is reputed for continuously upgrading its teaching and learning curriculum in sync with global standards, to empower each and every student with a competitive edge as new-age technology professionals. A strong management, experienced faculty and a robust learning environment are some of the other hallmarks responsible for the stupendous success enjoyed by our institute. We also offer flexible timings and partner with National Small Industries Corporation (NSIC) to provide on-job training and excellent placement opportunities for our students.

B.Arch course, with a difference!

With a world-class infrastructure, our B.Arch course in Architecture that was introduced in 2012, has been honing top-notch graduates in the subject. The course is aimed to take the education of architecture beyond the realms of buildings and propel it into developing a sustainable future. We imbibe in our students that architecture today is concerned with fundamental issues of users, cities and societies and not just materials, processes and aesthetics. Our students are trained to question the presupposed and seek novel and contemporary solutions in line with the modern tenets of architecture.

For more information, visit www.omdayal.com