DecodeX 2026
Description
DecodeX is a 24-hour national-level hackathon that challenges students to solve real-world business use cases through data-driven insights and analytical thinking. Designed as a high-energy, immersive experience, DecodeX brings together competitive problem-solving, industry exposure, and hands-on learning over two intense days.
Participants work in teams to decode complex business scenarios across multiple domains by applying analytical frameworks, interpreting data, and transforming insights into actionable business recommendations. The competition emphasizes not just analytical aptitude, but the ability to think critically, collaborate effectively, and deliver under time pressure.
Anchored in the academic excellence of N. L. Dalmia Institute of Management Studies and Research, DecodeX offers aspiring professionals a national platform to demonstrate their analytical capabilities, strategic mindset, and readiness for real-world business challenges as part of NLD Synapse 2026.
Going beyond theoretical learning, DecodeX provides a hands-on analytics experience, enabling participants to work with industry-relevant tools and techniques while strengthening their skills in data analysis, visualization, and business presentation.
Event Highlights
- National-Level Competition: Compete with student teams from across India
- Top Teams Recognition: High-performing teams gain visibility and recognition on a national platform
- Pre-Placement Interviews (PPIs): Top 10 teams get exclusive PPIs
- Workshops & Knowledge Sessions: Learn from industry professionals and alumni
- Synapse Fest Experience: Enjoy curated events including DJ Night and stand-up comedy as part of the NLD Synapse 2026 festivities
🔥 Special Attractions at NLD Synapse 2026
Along with intense problem-solving and analytics challenges, DecodeX at NLD Synapse 2026 also brings a touch of fest energy through live entertainment:
🎧 DJ Night: DJ Anshika – 27th February 2026
🎤 Stand-up Comedy: Inder Sahani – 1st March 2026
Eligibility
Education:
- MBA & PGDM students (1st and 2nd year)
- Master’s in Science (M.Sc) students (1st and 2nd year)
- Bachelor’s (Science/Engineering) students (3rd and 4th year)
Team Guidelines:
- Teams must comprise 1 to 3 members
- Team members can be from different institutes
- Each participant can be part of only one team
- Participants should have a laptop or personal system to work on analytical challenges
Rounds
Online MCQ Assessment
Round 1 is a 20-minute online MCQ test consisting of 20 questions based on Data Interpretation and Analytics. The test will be attempted only by the team leader on behalf of the team, and each team will be allowed only one attempt. The team’s score will be based solely on the performance of the team leader.
Marking scheme:
+1 for each correct answer and 0 for unattempted or incorrect answers
Top-performing teams will qualify for the next round.
Business Case Study (Online)
Shortlisted teams will be required to solve a business case study and submit their analysis online as an MS Word document (1200–1500 words). Only the team leader is permitted to submit one consolidated entry on behalf of the team. Submissions will be evaluated based on analytical approach, clarity, insights, and quality of recommendations. Entries exceeding the word limit may attract penalties, and late submissions will not be evaluated. Top-performing teams will qualify for the on-campus round.
24-Hour Business Use Case (On-Campus)
Qualified teams will compete in a 24-hour on-campus challenge at N. L. Dalmia Institute of Management Studies and Research, Mumbai. Each team will receive one business use case on the day of the event, covering domains such as Finance, Marketing, Healthcare, Technology, and Operations/Strategy.
Teams may use any tools or techniques to solve the problem. Submissions—including a Word report, presentation deck, and other analytical artifacts—are due by 10:00 AM on Day 2. Teams must bring their own laptops, and evaluation will focus on problem-solving, analytical depth, insights, and presentation quality. Top 10 finalist teams will also receive exclusive Pre-Placement Interviews (PPIs).