Play as You Work: Developing a Behavioral Assessment Framework for TAPMI Management Institute’s Admissions

T.A. Pai Management Institute (TAPMI) engaged FocusU to design a “Train the Evaluators” program for its annual admission process. TAPMI needed an effective and rapid method to assess approximately 3,000 MBA applicants on key behaviors: teamwork, ownership, and communication. To achieve this, FocusU developed two experiential activities, the “Tower of Brahma” and “Marshmallow Challenge,” each lasting under 10 minutes to accommodate the high volume of applicants.

The program was structured in four steps. First, evaluators familiarized themselves with the experiential learning cycle. Next, they participated in both activities, followed by in-depth discussions to understand behavioral nuances and practice using a detailed assessment form co-created with FocusU. Evaluators then conducted practice sessions with volunteer students, solidifying their skills.

On the final day, evaluators independently facilitated the activities with actual applicants. TAPMI faculty appreciated the collaborative effort, highlighting the program’s effectiveness in fostering teamwork and communication skills. This hands-on approach provided TAPMI with a reliable method for behavioral assessment, ensuring a fair, engaging experience for all participants​.