The IGNOU PGDLAN Project (MLIP 008) for post graduate diploma in library automation and network graduates ends with a mandatory course in which information on the learnt concepts is amalgamated. In this 4-credit capstone project, the student can apply the principles of library automation and networking to a research study. This guide clarifies the purpose of MLIP 008, the choice of topic, preparing a synopsis, format and structure of report, the selection of supervisor, the presentations of the reports, and viva-voce preparation.
Important Points & Tip
- Mandatory 4-credits course in the PGDLAN program is MLIP 008 (Project/Dissertation).
- The project report should be typed in A4 paper, double-spaced and bound satisfactorily.
- No student should fail in MLIP-008 at a score below 40 percent.
- Select an appropriate topic in the field of library automation/networking (such as, e.g., digital libraries, open-source ILS, metadata), and have it accepted by the designated supervisor.
- The project synopsis (proposal) should be sent to the coordinator of PGDLAN and the final report sent to the Regional Centre where the student is registered by IGNOU deadlines ( e.g. by May 31 before June exams ).
- Study the methodology, find out the findings and buy essential ideas to be able to respond to the typical questions during the viva-voce.
What does IGNOU PGDLAN Project (MLIP 8) mean?
IGNOU MLIP 8 Project Work/Dissertation is a course in PGDLAN. PDGLAN is a program that uses 7 theory / practical courses and this project work (8 in total) or 32 credits. Therefore, the MLIP 8 course alone has 4 credits just as the other courses.
Course Overview about MLIP 8
The IGNOU MLIP 8 project provides the students with a chance to complete a self-contained project connected with the library automation or networking. It acts as a summative course whereby, learners put their understanding of library information systems, digital libraries, networked information services and other areas into practice. The student is commonly a student who is identifying a problem or initiative (such as the implementation of a new library automation module, assessment of open-source use of ILS, design of library information network) and develops solution or analysis around that.
Significance of Project in PGDLAN Curriculum
The project is an obligatory, applied part of the PGDLAN program. It is supposed to develop the skills of the students further than the courses in theory with honing research skills and with practical insights of knowledge. IGNOU is not requiring students to complete a big research work in this course, but aiming at applying learning achieved in Library Automation and Networking courses in a practical situation. Depending on the selected topic, the project will enable the students to build professional skills (system design, data analysis and implementation skills were mentioned).
IGNOU PGDLAN Project Guidelines
This section is an overview of the official guidelines of IGNOU MLIP-008 Project.
Eligibility & Credits
The IGNOU MLIP 008 project is the target of all students arguably chosen to take the course in the PGDLAN program. The course is a 4-credit course like each of the other courses of PGDLAN. PGDLAN is a credit system program which has a total of 32 credits of 8 courses. Students usually prepare the project in the completion of most or all courses. A student should score over 40 per cent in the project to pass. IGNOU views the project as a term-end assessment part with no internal tasks.
Minimal and Maximal Word Count
The official guidelines on IGNOU MLIP-008 Project do not stipulate a rigid page length or a word count. But it is convention and sample projects that the final report is approximately 60-80 pages (approximately 15,000-20,000 words). Synopsis/proposal is normally short (8-12 pages, ~1,000 words). These are guiding rules, more or less, on this point, make sure we have a detailed report, but concentrated and adequately covering all the necessary areas [verify].
Binding Instructions and File Format
This is according to the format set by the IGNOU PGDLAN project manual which is as follows:
- Paper and Spacing: Type the report in A4 size paper (double spacing).
- Binding: The paper should not be in loose sheets, but it is to be bound.
- Front Matter: The official approval proforma (synopsis approval form), originality certificate and acknowledgements are some of the front sections.
- Guide Certificate: Include a certificate signed by project supervisor showing that the work was carried out under his or her guidance.
- Structure: Adhere to the proper chapter structure as outlined in the recommendations of IGNOU (see the following section). Apply standard format, numbering and headings.
In short, follow the format as it is described in the IGNOU project guidelines (2 spaces between lines, A4, bound, containing all the necessary front pages).
IGNOU PGDLAN Project Topic Selection
It is very important to choose a good topic. It must correspond to library automation/networking, and it must be manageable.
Best IGNOU PGDLAN Project Topics
Popular areas of PGDLAN projects (examples):
- Automation of the library housekeeping functions (e.g. cataloguing, circulation, acquisitions) in university or special libraries.
- Installation or testing of open-source library management tools (Koha, Greenstone, DSpace), on a college or a public library.
- A digital library or institutional repository creation and development, metadata standards (Dublin Core, MARC, etc.).
- Planning of network and IT infrastructure in library systems (designing LAN/WAN within network of libraries, Wi-Fi facilities, integration of RFID).
- Digitization of library volumes or multimedia resources, management of their content.
- Use of social media or web 2.0 technology in library service (web 2.0 tools (websites) in libraries, mobile applications and access to OPAC).
- Access control and information security in libraries networks.
- Library usage statistics (circulation statistics, user surveys) or services (library data hosted in the cloud).
Figure: “Top Project Topics for IGNOU PGDLAN”
Some good project ideas in PGDLAN usually touch on latest trends in library and information technology and most notably, the ones that capitalise on automation and networking.)
Tips on how to come up with a Topical Subject
- Relevance: Confirm that the area covered is highly relevant to PGDLAN topics (library automation, digital libraries, networking).
- Scope: Use a narrow topic. Stay away from extremely broad topics (e.g. instead of Digital libraries, specific instance such as a case study or a feature).
- Feasibility: Take into account data and resources available. Are you able to access the software you need or are able to perform required surveys?
- Interest and Background: Select a topic that interests you, and suits your background. As an illustration, it can be aligned with personal experience or a technology with which a person is familiar.
- Consultation: Talk to academic counsellors or possible supervisors. They are able to propose topics that will be within the framework of IGNOU and with sufficient depth.
- Literature Check: Perform a brief review of available literature or case studies to determine whether sufficient referencing material exists and so that it will be useful through the project.
Chapter wise Structure of IGNOU PGDLAN Project Report
The project structure recommended by IGNOU comprises such elements as front matter (title page, approval/synopsis form, originality certificate, etc.) and a contents page. The main chapters must be:
Chapter 1: Introduction
Name the topic, identify the problem or field of study, justify its importance and give project content goals. Give some background to the situation (e.g. recent trends in library automation) and indicate briefly how the report is organized.
Chapter 2: Literature Review
Provide some background on available research and material on your subject. Refer to existing studies in the automation and networking of libraries. This will put your work into the context and define the gap your project fills.
Chapter 3: Objectives & Methodology
Tabulate the research questions or objectives. Explain the methodology: research design, data collection (surveys, system implementation and so on), tools/techniques. Indicate the means in which you will accomplish the goals.
Chapter 4: Data Interpretation / System Design
Show your findings or development work. In case of analysis projects, present the data in tabular form or graphical form and describe the findings. In the case of system-development projects, specify the system design (architecture, workflow, diagrams) and its implementation.
Chapter 5: Conclusion and Suggestions
Write a brief summary of the project results and the achievement of the objectives. Explain main conclusions and implications. Write recommendations or suggestions to improve or work in the future. Report on any shortcomings of your work.
Figure: “MLIP 008 Project Report Format – Chapter Breakdown”
IGNOU also has guidelines of other appendages such as acknowledgements, bibliography/references, index, and appendices. A full bibliography must always be included. This organization of report in these chapters is as per the guidelines of IGNOU, and lends clarity.
Writing Guidelines of IGNOU PGDLAN Project Synopsis
A project description (proposal) indicates what you are going to do. It must be precise and organized.
Synopsis Format & Example Template
A characterization of MLIP-008 comprises:
- Project Title: Name of your research.
- Introduction/Rationale: A brief introduction of the topic and a reason as to why the study is important or relevant.
- The Study’s Objectives: Indicate the particular objectives or research questions of your project.
- Literature Review (Brief): Describe the main references or previous work that your work will be based on.
- Methodology: Explain your proposed method of implementation of the project (where you would get the data to be used, the instrumentation, the plan of analysis or the way you would design the system).
- Chapters/Outline: Suggested (optional): provide a list of the chapters or sections that will be in the complete report.
- Expected Outcomes: List any possible outcomes or products.
- References: cite a couple of key sources.
📌 For a visual guide and templates, refer to:
👉 How to write IGNOU Synopsis/Proposal?
The synopsis is typically quite short (around 8-12 pages). Obtain accurate structure by using the official IGNOU MLIP-008 Project Guide. Provide a proforma statement of official approval (which will be signed by the coordinator) as part of the synopsis.
Usual Mistakes in IGNOU MLIP 008 Synopsis
- Vague Objectives: Make sure that objectives are specific and measurable.
- Missing Sections: Do not leave out important sections such as methodology, or objectives.
- Wrong Length: It should be within expected length; it should not be short or too long.
- Lack of references: You should at least mention the main literature, in a synopsis; do not omit it.
- Format Disregard: You must not lack any of the requested front sheets; make sure you have the acceptance type and the signature of the guide sheet.
- Language/Grammar Mistakes: Proofread and be clear in your writing. An ill-prepared synopsis could show a lack of preparation.
- Vague Scope: Outline the scope or the boundaries to have realistic expectations.
IGNOU PGDLAN Project Guide Supervisor Selection
Your project supervisor should be fulfilling the minimum criteria of IGNOU. The types of supervisors that are normally acceptable PGDLAN are:
- Ph.D./M.Tech in Library and Information Science or Computer Science (designated at the level of Assistant Professor).
- A Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) degree, 5 years minimum of library or instructional experience.
- B.E./B.Tech (CS), MCA or M.Sc. (CS) with atleast 2 years of IT experience (either in industry or teaching).
As an illustration, you might like to propose a guide based on these criteria (most likely a professor or senior librarian/IT professional), which then will need to be approved by the PGDLAN coordinator. Remember there can only be 6 students that are guided by one supervisor.
IGNOU MLIP 008 Project Submission Process
Compiling the data for submission is an easy process that entails a number of steps:
Offline and Online Submission Process
- Synopsis Submission (Offline): Make a submission of synopsis/proposal of your projects to seek approval. One copy of the synopsis form (uploading the biodata of the guide) should be sent to the PGDLAN Programme Coordinator in IGNOU.
- Submission of Final Report (Offline): Upon approval, the bound project report (one copy) should be sent to the IGNOU Regional Centre where the learner is enrolled.
- Online Submission: IGNOU provides an online portal, as well. As an illustration, the online deadline to submit applications to form the June 2025 TEE was 31 May 2025. The portal only accepts one PDF file with the full report (in effect, including scanned front pages). Portal instructions: follow the instructions carefully (check clear scans, correct order of pages, etc.).
Your identification number, course code MLIP-008 and the title should be clearly written on the project. Save a record of submission. In others, you might have to send a hard copy despite posting online, check with your Regional Centre.
Figure: “PGDLAN Project Submission Checklist”
PGDLAN Project Submission Deadlines
IGNOU project deadlines are date-wise with term-end tests. The due date on final project reports is normally end-May on the June TEE and end-November on the December TEE. As an illustration, June 2025 four weeks online submission period was May 31, 2025. and (Similarly, anticipate in or about November 30 the December TEE.) Always check carefully when your session will end with the official IGNOU academic calendar or with your Regional Centre.
Figure: “IGNOU PGDLAN Project Cycle (Jan & July Session)”
Viva-voce Preparation Tips in PGDLAN Project
Once having submitted the project, you will do what is called a viva-voce (oral exam or defense) with the faculty asking questions regarding your work. The preparation is important.
Sample Viva Questions
The common questions students encounter include:
- What is your project? (State the subject and scope.)
- Why did you select this topic? (Provide its relevance and aims.)
- What are the principal purposes of your research?
- Tell me about your methodology or approach. (Be prepared to describe how you did a study, how you designed the system.)
- What are the most important findings or conclusions? (Write a summary of the results.)
- What difficulties or constraints did you come across?
- What is the connection between this project and your PGDLAN coursework? (Map it to library automation/networking concepts.)
- What would you recommend or make better in the future?
(These are examples; real questions can be different.)
How to Prepare with Confidence
- Know Your Work: It is good to read your synopsis and full report diligently. Know what you want to achieve, how, and what should be the conclusion.
- Refreshing of Core Concepts: Revise and/or review related PGDLAN concepts (automated cataloguing, network protocols, etc.), which can help your project.
- Practice Answers: Run through probable questions out-loud. A simulation of a viva with another student or someone to act as a mentor can be illuminating.
- Know Your Data/ Design: Name the way you gathered data if you did, and interpret what it means or represents. Be ready to describe a system and explain how it works, in case you constructed one.
- Remain Proficient: Arrive on time to viva. Look presentable (when meeting face- to-face). Bring along a copy of your notes and report.
- Calm Down: Calmly and assuredly respond. Hear out every question. When not sure of a question, ask questions first in a polite manner.
Download Section
IGNOU PGDLAN Project Synopsis Sample PDF
Sample formats of synopsis are mentioned in official IGNOU material (e.g. in MLIP-008 Project Guide, available on eGyankosh). In the eGyankosh digital library repository of IGNOU another example of a synopses can be found (by searching the MLIP-008 manual).
IGNOU MLIP 008 Project Report Format PDF
The quality of the report in the MLIP 008 Project Report Format PDF is acceptable. Report formatting (use of double-spacing, binding, required sections) is given in the MLIP-008 Project Guide (on the site of IGNOU).
List of IGNOU MLIP 8 Project Topics
IGNOU does not publish any official list of topics, although quite a number of study centers and project guidebooks do. PGDLAN compilation of IGNOU project topics (available as PDF file on various education websites) should be consulted to get an idea.
FAQs on IGNOU PGDLAN Project Work (MLIP 8)
Q: What is the IGNOU MLIP 8 Project?
A: The MLIP 8 course is the mandatory project/dissertation of PGDLAN. The students undergo an indie project (4 credits) on the use of library automation and networking principles.
Q: What are the credit hours of IGNOU MLIP 8 project?
A: It is a four-credit course, just like any other PGDLAN course.
Q: How is the project report to be carried?
A: The report will be on A4 paper double-spaced, bound firmly. Title page, approval proforma, originality certificate, chapters (Introduction, etc.) and references.
Q: What is the word/page limit to the project?
A: IGNOU does not specify a maximum amount, but a typical amount of report pages is likely to be 60-80 (about 15,000-20,000 words), and synopsis 8-12 (about 1,000) [check].
Q: Do you have some PGDLAN project topics to suggest?
A: Among them are the adoption of library automation modules, the creation of a digital library, the assessment of open source ILS, the design of a library/security network, metadata management systems, RFID, mobile library applications, and so forth.
Q: What is the process of PGDLAN project submission?
A: Approach the PGDLAN coordinator and get your synopsis endorsed. After which, the final-bound report (one copy) is to be submitted to the Regional Centre within the due date (this is usually May 31st submission date in case of June exam, Nov 30th in case of Dec exam).
Q: How is the project assessment done?
A: The term-end examination (a viva-defense is typically the test); One has to score 40 percent to pass MLIP 008. This course does not have any continuous assessment assignments.
Q: Who is going to supervise my PGDLAN project?
A: Any qualified supervisor must be present (see section above). Usually, an MCA/M.Sc(CS) with experience, PHD/M.Tech (LIS/CS) of experience, or MLIS with experience is acceptable.
Conclusion
This capstone degree IGNOU PGDLAN Project (MLIP 008) will help you to integrate what you have learned about library automation and networking. With adherence to all the guidelines set by IGNOU such as selecting an appropriate topic, formatting the report, observing all the requirements of the format and making submission, students will be able to complete the project successfully. It is important to carefully plan the synopsis, focus on the quality of the report and prepare well on viva. To obtain up to date instructions the official MLIP 008 project guide and, where appropriate, the PGDLAN coordinator or Regional Centre should always be consulted. All the PGDLAN grant requirements in terms of formatting and submission deadlines will be met to complete the project.
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