Value Engineering is a 6-step methodology to define and develop value and innovation within any system. In the current dynamic business environment, Value Engineering can help optimize your projects, processes, and products by finding balance between Function and Resources. Through this methodology, companies and government agencies regularly decrease costs, increase profits, improve quality and performance, and enhance customer satisfaction.

One of the pioneering names of Value Engineering in India is Atina Systems LLP. Based out of Bengaluru, the company was founded in 2011 and facilitates value studies across verticals with a spirit of objectivity, offering the preparation and leadership needed to get implementable results. Atina caters to different industries including Automotive Ancillary, Construction Contracting, Consumer Electronics, Engineering Services, IT Services and Oil & Gas. With their SAVE International (formerly ‘Society of American Value Engineers’) certified personnel, the organization believes in the ability to co-create value among stakeholders.

Anita Lukose is the Partner & CEO of Atina Systems LLP. Under her guidance, the firm has created a diversified service portfolio that includes innovation consulting, training on Value Engineering, and Value Engineering services for the academia. She has also been recognized on multiple occasions by national and international bodies for her work in Value Engineering.

In an exclusive interview with WOMEN ENTREPRENEUR, Anita takes us through her professional journey and how she has been able to guide Atina Systems LLP to greater heights in the industry.

Tell Us More About Your Educational And Professional Background.

As a graduate of civil engineering, I started my professional career in the construction industry. Working on projects which used construction practices outlined by Laurie Baker, helped me to understand how we can improve our efficiency while at the same time care for the environment. Later, I moved to Bengaluru, where I was freelancing as a Civil Engineering for multiple construction projects.

While working for Sobha Ltd., a premier Real Estate organization, I was asked to setup and head their Value Engineering Department. Setting up a department which is new in the construction industry in India was a great learning. We started innovation exhibitions regularly which showcased the results of our Value Engineering studies. During this time, we set up new processes, conducted value studies on existing products and processes, revised designs, and improved construction procedures. This gave us a practical knowledge of Value Engineering and its applications. Meanwhile, I got certified in Value Engineering and was the first lady and first civil engineer from India to get the CVS (Certified Value Specialist) certification.

All these experiences helped me understand the nuances of running a business and resulted in the establishment of my company, I am also a Guest faculty at Christ University, where I teach Value methodology to Post graduate students of Media Studies.

Apart from my engineering degree and other certifications, I am also an approved instructor for certification courses in VE. Different Initiatives taken up as the Regional Manager-Asia Region for the global affairs of SAVE International and the Associate Vice President of South zone of Indian Value Engineering society (INVEST) helped me to interact with Value practitioners across globe. Understanding the multiple views of similar aspects has helped me to become a better specialist in this field.

What Are The Different Roles That You Play At Atina Systems, And What Were Some Of The Major Challenges You Faced In Your Journey?

As the CEO and partner of a startup I must wear multiple hats at the same time, but I primarily look after our consultancy and training operations.

"We Try To Bring Awareness To The Importance Of Value Engineering And Expose More People To Its Benefits"

The biggest challenge in my journey is making people aware of the proper process of Value methodology. many people in the industry understand VE as a set of ideas generated to reduce cost. We try to bring awareness of this struc­tured methodology, to achieve the actual benefits of Value Engineer­ing. Many countries of the world mandatorily require Value Studies to be conducted for high value and complex projects., and it is high time India considers the same

According To You, What Are The Various Professional Milestones That Gave You Utmost Satisfaction?

Every client that we have worked with is a milestone for me. My passion in continuous learning and improving help me to. understand the clients well to guide them better. This gives me a great amount of happiness. Continuous learning is the philosophy instilled in the company too., which has been one of the primary catalysts behind our sustained success in the industry. We invite experienced value practitioners of international repute during our monthly learning sessions offered to our clients. This mindset allowed us to remain competitive during the pandemic times as well.

How Do You Update Yourself With The Latest Trends In The Industry, And What Advice Would You Give To The Coming Generation Of Women Entrepreneurs?

I have built a strong network of top-notch Value Engineering professionals. Constant interaction with them helps me stay up to date with the industry. Apart from that, I attend regular Value Engineering conferences both in India and abroad and read journals as well as other published papers on the topic. Regular online courses that are related to Value Engineering, helps me keep abreast with the changing industry trends.

Perseverance is crucial if you want to succeed in the industry, and this is especially true for women. Instead of constantly worrying about the future, make sure that you live in the present. Find a balance between work and personal life and ensure that one doesn’t overpower the other.

Anita Lukose, CEO, Partner, Atina Systems LLP

This pioneering business leader strives to not only offer top-notch Value Engineering services, but she also strives to cement her legacy in the global Value Engineering domain. And when asked about what motivates her to push herself to greater heights, she says “My family has been a huge support to me. They understand my passion in Value Engineering. My husband and children are certified in Value Methodology.