On Monday afternoon, our first day, we already went on our second company visit, where we got a very friendly welcome by the employees of GameSir, a Guangzhou based company, specializing in manufacturing gaming hardware. To be more specific, GameSir is mostly producing peripherals to enhance the gaming experience on third party devices, such as gaming consoles and PCs, but also for mobile gaming, a market which is rapidly growing in Eastern Asia. Such peripherals are usually controllers, which can be connected to the consoles or attached to the mobile phones, so players don't have to deal with unprecise inputs on touchscreens whole playing their games and can enjoy a faster and more precise gaming experience. 

GameSir focuses on high quality equipment, which is customizable to the players preference and allows for many customization options, such as the replacement of hardware such as buttons, to fit the players preference, to the mapping of buttons, so players are able to set their own layouts for specific games. Combining innovative hard- and software, GameSir's peripherals also allow for a seamless gaming experience due to little input lag. Also, their designs are convincing, as controllers, especially for mobile gamers, are quickly stored away and don't need a lot of space. 

But the visit at GameSir was not only impressing due to their products, but also their openness to answer all kind of questions, and their kindness as hosts, offering us the possibility to actually try their products for a while. All in all, the visit to GameSir was a very pleasant experience and a great start to this week.

Our recent field trip to the Huawei campus in China provided us with a unique opportunity to get a better understanding of one of the world's leading technology companies. Huawei, renowned for its innovative products and services, has faced significant challenges in recent years due to the US and EU embargo. However, the company has demonstrated resilience, adapting its strategy and focusing on emerging markets to continue its growth trajectory.

Huawei's commitment to cybersecurity is evident throughout its operations. The company has invested heavily in developing robust security measures to protect its customers and their data. We were particularly impressed by their emphasis on end-to-end cybersecurity assurance, which ensures that security is integrated into every aspect of their products and services. One of the key challenges facing the technology industry today is the ever-evolving landscape of cyber threats. DDOS attacks, data breaches, ransomware attacks, and supply chain attacks pose significant risks to businesses and individuals alike. Huawei recognizes the severeness of these threats and has implemented a comprehensive approach to mitigate them. 

The company's dedication to cybersecurity is further highlighted by its extensive research and development efforts. Huawei's investment in artificial intelligence (AI) has enabled them to stay ahead of cybercriminals, who are increasingly leveraging AI for their attacks. By utilizing AI for both defence and offense, Huawei aims to maintain a competitive edge in the cybersecurity landscape. Quantum computing, a rapidly emerging technology, poses a significant threat to existing cryptographic systems. Huawei is actively exploring the potential impact of quantum computing on cybersecurity and is working to develop countermeasures to protect against future attacks.

To ensure the highest level of security, Huawei conducts rigorous audits both internally and externally. These audits help identify vulnerabilities and ensure that the company's security measures are up to date. Huawei's commitment to transparency and accountability is evident in their willingness to undergo independent audits and share their findings with customers and regulators. 

Huawei's cybersecurity mission is driven by a strong belief in the power of technology to improve people's lives. The company's vision is to create a digital world that is secure, reliable, and accessible to all. Through their innovative products and services, Huawei is helping to drive digital transformation and enable businesses and individuals to thrive in the interconnected world. Huawei's commitment to cybersecurity is also reflected in its open-source initiatives. The company actively contributes to open-source projects and collaborates with other organizations to improve the security of the internet. By fostering collaboration and sharing knowledge, Huawei is helping to create a more secure and resilient digital ecosystem.

Our visit to the Huawei campus provided us with a valuable opportunity to learn about the company's approach to cybersecurity. Huawei's commitment to innovation, transparency, and collaboration is evident in its efforts to protect its customers and their data. As the threat landscape continues to evolve, Huawei's focus on cybersecurity will remain a critical factor in its success. Huawei's invitation for lunch in their inhouse employee restaurant offering dishes from all over the world and a campus drive rounded up a very interesting second day of our study field trip.

For further information please visit the following website: https://www.huawei.com/en/sustainability/the-latest/stories/huawei-cyber-security-transparency-centers 

On Thursday morning, we had the pleasure of visiting Guangzhou University (GZU), located in the heart of Guangzhou, China. Upon our arrival, we were warmly welcomed by Ms. Dr. ZHU Hui, Director of the Business Management School, Ms. JIANG Caifen, Head of the MBA Program, and Ms. TZhen Liyun, from the MBA Center at Guangzhou University and also from the students of the university. They guided us to a classroom where the first part of our program took place.

In the classroom, we formed mixed groups with GZU students, giving us the chance to introduce ourselves and get to know one another. This informal exchange provided a perfect icebreaker, as we shared our backgrounds, studies, and aspirations. It was a wonderful opportunity to connect with our peers and begin fostering friendships that would continue throughout the day. After our group activities, we were taken on a guided walk around the university’s spacious and modern campus. Guangzhou University’s mix of traditional Chinese architecture and contemporary design creates a unique and inspiring environment. One of the highlights of our tour was a visit to the university museum, where we received a fascinating introduction to the history and development of GZU. During our time at the museum, we learned about the university’s relatively young history, having been founded in 2000 after the merger of several institutions. Despite its youth, GZU has grown rapidly into one of South China’s top universities, renowned for its research and innovation in fields like environmental engineering, software development, and urban planning. The museum's exhibits detailed how the university has played a pivotal role in the region’s academic and economic development.

Following the museum visit, we gathered for a long lunch together with the GZU students, giving us more time to relax and get to know each other better. This shared meal was one of the most memorable parts of the day, as it allowed us to not only enjoy the local cuisine but also engage in deeper conversations with our new friends. We exchanged stories about our educational experiences, cultural differences, and career aspirations, learning a great deal from each other in the process. In conclusion, our visit to Guangzhou University was both informative and personally enriching. From exploring the beautiful campus and learning about the university’s history to forming genuine connections with GZU students, it was an experience that we will carry with us beyond this trip. We look forward to maintaining the friendships we made and hope for further opportunities to collaborate in the future.

Visit to Guangzhou Automobile Group Co., Ltd R&D Center and GAC Aion Factory in Guangzhou 

On Thursday afternoon we visited GAC in Guangzhou. The visit was divided into two parts, and we were accompanied by students from Guangzhou University, which made the experience even more engaging. Our first stop was the GAC Research & Development (R&D) Center, where we got a closer look at the technology projects the company is currently working on. It was fascinating to see how much effort they invest in developing new ideas and making their cars even better. 

One of the highlights was their work on autonomous (self-driving) cars. We watched simulations showing how they test these cars in different conditions, like heavy rain or traffic, to make sure they are safe and reliable. It was impressive to see how detailed these tests are and how they prepare the cars for any possible situation. It really showed the company’s dedication to safety and innovation. We also had the chance to see some of their concept cars and the models that are already available on the market. These concept cars looked very futuristic, showing their vision for the future of mobility. However, one thing that surprised me was that almost every large screen and monitor in the center was showing videos of the Chinese President visiting the facility. It was unexpected, but it seems they wanted to highlight the government’s support and approval of their work. 

The second part of the visit was to the GAC AION production facility, where they manufacture electric cars. AION is a sub-brand of GAC that focuses on electric vehicles. This was a really impressive experience as we walked through the entire production line and saw how the cars are built from start to finish. Before we could enter, we were asked to seal our phones in special covers they provided. This was to ensure that no photos or videos could be taken during our visit, which showed how strict they are about maintaining privacy and protecting their technology. The factory itself was very advanced but not fully automated as I had expected. It was more of a semi-automatic system. The robots were responsible for building the car bodies and assembling the chassis, and they worked with perfect precision. It was amazing to see these robotic arms in action, moving so quickly and accurately. However, the workers were also very important in the process, especially during the final assembly. Human workers handled tasks like putting together the interior and other smaller parts. Despite this mix of robotics and human labor, everything ran smoothly, like a well-organized system, showing just how skilled and efficient the workers are. 

Overall, the visit gave me a deep insight into how GAC operates and how they blend technology with skilled human labor to build their cars. It was incredible to see such advanced technology in action and to understand the amount of work that goes into making a single vehicle. The visit was both educational and eye-opening and I enjoyed every moment of it, and it was a memorable experience. Ein Bild, das Wolke, Auto, Fahrzeug, Landfahrzeug enthält.

EHang is at the forefront of transforming transportation with its autonomous drones. Founded in 2014, the company aims to make air mobility safe, eco-friendly, and accessible to everyone. In July this year, they made headlines with the first public flights of two passenger drones, carrying four people each, a major step forward in urban air mobility. Their flagship product, the EHang 216, is a two-seater drone that flies autonomously, showcasing the future of transport.

Beyond passenger drones, EHang operates in areas like smart city management, firefighting, and even drone shows, where one person can control thousands of drones in intricate displays. Their partnerships with companies like DHL and Austria Red Cross demonstrate how their technology can be used for cargo delivery and emergency response.

EHang’s mission to revolutionize transport is backed by strong safety protocols and thousands of successful test flights worldwide. Since going public on NASDAQ in 2019, they have expanded globally, with operations in the US, Europe, and Asia. Their vision? To become the leading authority in intelligent aerial vehicles and make urban air mobility a reality for everyone.

When we arrived, we were warmly welcomed by a representative from EHang, who gave us an introduction to the company. He shared the company’s history and explained the certifications required to operate their drones safely. Afterward, we visited the showroom, where we saw EHang's three most famous drone models: the EH216-S, the VT-30, and the EHang 216F.

The EH216-S is designed for short-distance passenger transportation, flying up to 30 kilometers. It's perfect for urban air mobility, offering a new way to avoid traffic in busy cities. The VT-30 is built for longer distances, capable of covering up to 300 kilometers. It's ideal for traveling between cities or remote areas, showing just how far drone technology has advanced. Lastly, the EHang 216F is a specialized firefighting drone, equipped to handle emergencies by reaching places that fire trucks can't. It carries firefighting equipment and can operate quickly, especially in crowded urban areas.

Unfortunately, we were unable to do a test flight, but were invited to come back at any time at the newly planned facility to do a flight (and perhaps the next year group will have the chance to get airborne)

We recently had the opportunity to visit the Tesla company alongside students from Guangzhou University. The visit began with a fascinating introduction to Tesla’s history and vision, highlighting the company’s commitment to innovation and sustainable energy. We then had the chance to explore Tesla’s diverse range of vehicles, all equipped with cutting-edge technology.

A highlight of the visit was the impressive Tesla demonstration, during which the vehicle opened and closed its doors in sync with the background music. We also had the unique chance to take a short drive in a Tesla, allowing us to experience firsthand its smooth acceleration, quiet performance, and high level of comfort.

During the lunch break, the Chinese and Swiss students came together in mixed groups to exchange cultural insights and enjoy the variety of local Chinese cuisine. It was a wonderful opportunity to learn more from one another and delve deeper into the cultural differences and similarities. The exchange was more than just sharing a meal; it created a real cultural connection that benefited everyone involved. 

At the end of this eventful day, we exchanged gifts with the students from Guangzhou University, took photos to capture the memories, and received certificates from the university. It was a great way to end a special and unforgettable day for everyone. 

A Glimpse into the World of Filmbase: Innovation Meets Tradition

We were privileged to visit Filmbase, a company rapidly making waves in the smart new material industry. Our tour was led by Filmbase Co-Founder Yuan Lanlan, who warmly welcomed us and provided insights into the company's operations. Filmbase, a relatively young company established in 2017, has quickly expanded its reach to over 20 countries, including the US, Germany, Dubai, Brazil, and Norway. This global presence is a testament to their innovative products and strong international partnerships.

The heart of Filmbase lies in its commitment to "making glass do more." Over the years, they've successfully introduced a range of products, including LED transparent displays, smart film, smart glass, smart solar curtains, and silent pods. They are introducing new innovative products that could help the world succeed with their sustainable goals: They will launch glass that can withstand temperature changes, have solar panels within glass, have options to dim, and the possibility of incorporating UV protection. Imagine a skyscraper built with windows that can keep the heat or cold outside while gathering electricity through their solar panels. These products are aesthetically pleasing and technologically advanced, setting new standards in the industry.

One of the features of Filmbase's production site is the delicate balance between high-tech advancements and traditional craftsmanship. While their showroom showcases cutting-edge innovations, we were surprised to see manual labour still playing a crucial role in certain production processes. This emphasis on human oversight ensures the highest quality standards, even as they continue to invest in automation.

Filmbase's products have diverse applications, from homes and offices to outdoor advertisements, museums, and exhibitions. Their commitment to openness, cooperation, and win-win partnerships has enabled them to build strong relationships with global partners. Whether you're a researcher seeking technological breakthroughs or a business looking to expand your market reach, Filmbase offers exciting opportunities for collaboration.

As we concluded our tour, we were left impressed by Filmbase's dedication to innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction. Their vision to become a technology leader in the smart new material industry is well-founded, and we look forward to witnessing their continued success.

For further information please visit the following webiste: https://www.smartfilmbase.com/ 

Shenzhen, often called the “Silicon Valley of China”, hosts over 1500 clock and watch enterprises within its “Time Valley”, dedicated to watches and their parts. The first company we visited was “Sen Fung Vacuum Plating”, established in 1998 and specializing in vacuum coating and plating technologies across industries like electronics, automotive, luxury goods, and medical instruments. There are many collaboration brands including well-known Swiss companies like Radio and Tissot and globally, to name just a few:  Apple, Samsung, Swarovski, Renault, Gucci, Huawei, Bosch, Dysion and many more.

The company is always innovating and investing a great part of their revenue for R&D, like most Chinese companies we visited. They invest in new machines and technologies, ensuring a highly verticalized PVD production process. Their advanced facility combines science, engineering, and manufacturing, making them a top leader in Asia's PVD industry.

Sen Fung has an annual sales figure between 3-4 billion USD and employs around 2000 workers. They expanded globally by opening a new factory in Thailand in 2020.

During our visit, we were able to see the “Apple” floor, and the production line for the apple camera rings. We could see the whole production line, from placing the rings on the holder construction, the plating process, and the quality control. The entire production includes a lot of human interaction such as placing the rings on the holders and the quality control. During our visit, we could also learn that the workers are doing this job for a long time and normally, there is no job rotation unless somebody is able to achieve a higher level in the structure.

On a different floor, we were able to see the quality-control testing system, where the use of a watch is simulated under different situations such as temperature, salty condition (corrosion). Typical tests are: thickness, corrosion, adhesion, abrasion, and hardness.

Sen Fung also has a smart factory production line, but due to time limits we were unable to visit this part of the factory.

An interesting fact we learned from the host during the visit, that the government strictly enforces environmental standards. Companies that don't comply must close and leave the Shenzhen area.

We had the incredible opportunity to visit BASiC Semiconductor's facility in Shenzhen in the after afternoon of September 9th, 2024. This visit offered a fascinating peek into the heart of China's burgeoning semiconductor industry, particularly in the realm of Silicon Carbide (SiC) technology.

The company's chief on-site engineer greeted us warmly at their offices, setting the tone for an enlightening tour. The highlight was a behind-the-scenes look at their state-of-the-art foundry, where they manufacture Automotive Full-SiC Power Modules. Unfortunately, for understandable reasons related to intellectual property and security, we were not permitted to take photographs during our visit. While this means I can't share visual documentation of the impressive facility, it also adds an air of exclusivity to the experience I'm about to describe.

These SiC power modules might not sound exciting at first, but they're the unsung heroes of the electric vehicle (EV) revolution. They enable more efficient power conversion, which translates to longer range, faster charging, and overall better performance in EVs. It's no exaggeration to say that these tiny components are helping to drive the future of transportation.

Our guide shared some fascinating insights into the manufacturing process. While these devices don't require the absolute cutting edge in semiconductor tech, they demand excellent manufacturing control, continuous improvement, and close collaboration with customers. It's a delicate balance of precision engineering and customer-focused innovation.

One thing that struck me was the emphasis on cost control. This is a high Capex (capital expenditure) industry, where the investment in equipment and facilities is enormous. Couple that with high customer demands and fierce competition, and you've got a challenging business environment that requires constant vigilance and cost optimization.

Perhaps most intriguing was learning about BASiC Semiconductor's role in developing China's semiconductor industry. They're not just manufacturing components; they're helping to build a robust ecosystem that could reshape the global tech landscape. The impact of BASiC Semiconductor extends far beyond its factory walls. Their SiC power modules are crucial components in the booming EV industry of the Pearl River Delta region. This area, often called the "Silicon Valley of Hardware," is at the forefront of China's electric vehicle revolution. By providing cutting-edge power modules, BASiC is helping to accelerate the development and production of EVs in this dynamic region.

The work being done at BASiC Semiconductor is a testament to China's growing prowess in high-tech manufacturing. It's clear that they're not just keeping pace with global trends – they're helping to set them. This visit was more than just a field trip; it was a glimpse into the present and future of mobility and the intricate supply chains that make it possible. As the world moves towards electrification, companies like BASiC Semiconductor will play an increasingly crucial role. I, for one, can't wait to see what comes next in this rapidly evolving industry.

On Tuesday morning we visited the Lonton Group Ltd. The company was established in 2005 and serves as a one-stop shop for a variety of electronic products. Lonton is committed to leverage electronic products to a more efficient communication and a richer interactive experience.

On one hand, Lonton produces customized display products, such as smart business and education screens. These screens serve as allrounders for business meetings or class rooms. Customers may use the screens as intelligent white or black boards, join conference calls with integrated cameras, microphones and speakers and use the MS office suite. Their white / black board feature allows multi-editing, i.e. multiple users can contribute on the reactive surface at the same time. Also, notes that are taken on files over the screen are saved within the edited file. Besides their smart displays for business and education, they provide a range of further display products, such as self-service cash registers, ad displays or customized notebooks. These solutions are designed, developed and manufactured by Lonton. To deliver full circle from R&D over manufacturing to delivery, Lonton serves with expertise in the design and development of hardware, in signal processing, power management, human-computer interaction, system integration and software development.

On the other hand, they also design, develop and manufacture power supply units to charge electrical vehicles. Similar to the display-based products, Lonton designs, develops and produces the necessary electronics (e.g. motherboards), the housing of the devices and writes the necessary software to operate the products. 

During our visit we could see some of their smart display models in their exhibition hall and get hands-on experience by using the screens ourselves. The displays are well integrated in their environment (e.g. between two halves of a traditional blackboard). Also, a standing mobile screen was presented. The screen could be used in a business environment. Due to its mobility it can be easily moved between meeting rooms whereas permanently installed screens cannot. Alternatively, it can be used in a private environment, where the  screen could serve as a chef giving advices in the kitchen, or as a coach, showing exercises in the living room. At the end, we were also presented one of Lonton's charging stations which was installed and in operation, down in the garage of their office building.

It was very interesting to get insights into the different production steps involved for electronic products: From the design of hardware components and software over the production of single components and the assembly of components to a finished product. We were warmly welcomed by Lonton and could feel a great spirit and huge excitement of the employees for their sophisticated products. Xièxie (谢谢)!

On our visit to Tencent's headquarters in Shenzhen, we were immediately struck by the impressive scale and modern architecture of the main buildings. The structures were not only enormous but also creatively designed, showcasing Tencent’s commitment to innovation. Our group was warmly welcomed upon arrival, setting the tone for an engaging and informative experience.

The exhibition, which is divided into two floors, was initially planned to start from the ground floor. However, due to ongoing construction work, we explored the first floor’s exhibition instead. Despite this minor change, the exhibition itself was extremely fascinating. We were presented with an array of Tencent’s key metrics, the company’s rich history—including a display featuring their first server and computer—and much more.

What amazed us most was the sheer scale of services and applications Tencent offers, something we were aware of, yet still left us in awe seeing it all in one place. It was remarkable how most of these services are accessible through a single app, emphasizing the interconnectedness of their ecosystem. Their strength in the gaming industry was particularly notable, with several displays showcasing their dominance in this space.

We were also intrigued by the various innovative technologies Tencent is currently using. A highlight was the power bank station, which featured a unique scanning technology that reads the palm of the user’s hand, specifically designed for women. Another memorable experience was entering a room where we could explore ancient ruins recreated virtually. Using a controller that functioned like a flashlight, we had the chance to investigate these ruins interactively, which truly brought the virtual experience to life.

Unfortunately, our visit was limited to just one guided tour, but it was a memorable experience nonetheless. The insights we gained about Tencent’s technological advancements and its seamless integration of services have given us a deeper understanding of why the company is such a global powerhouse.

Our professors spontaneously organized a short but insightful visit to "We-Linking," a promising startup in the biomedical engineering field. Founded in 2019 by Dr. Xiaojian Li, along with his colleagues Chunshan Deng and Tao Su, the company is focused on pushing the boundaries of brain-computer interface (BCI) technology. We-Linking’s team consists of 40 to 50 researchers, including 10 to 20 specialized engineers. Their main headquarters and research facilities are located in Shenzhen, complemented by clinical research and data centers in Beijing and Suzhou. To date, the startup has successfully secured around $12 million in funding across two rounds of financing, a testament to investor confidence in their innovative vision.

We-Linking’s mission is ambitious: they aim to accelerate the development of BCI technology to significantly improve the quality of life for patients and their families. The company’s vision revolves around creating seamless connections between the human brain and technology, facilitating communication and empowering meaningful actions.

Upon our arrival, we were warmly welcomed by the team, who were eager to share their work with us. After brief introductions, we were given a tour of their office, situated within a medical research hub. Despite the brevity of our visit, the team quickly moved to showcase their latest product: a fully implantable brain-computer interface (FiBCI) system. This device is designed to record neural signals from the motor cortex of the human brain and convert them into digital signals, which can then be processed by a computer. It was fascinating to hear that they are already testing this technology on animals such as monkeys, pigs, and mice, and are actively seeking approval to begin human trials.

We interacted with several employees, all of whom were master's students gaining valuable, hands-on experience in this rapidly advancing field. It was clear that We-Linking offers these students a unique opportunity to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and practical application, fostering an environment of real-world innovation and learning.

This visit provided us with a unique glimpse into the workings of a startup, in contrast to the larger corporations we had mostly encountered throughout our study trip. The experience left us inspired, highlighting the dynamic and fast-paced nature of the startup ecosystem in the field of biomedical engineering.

On Wednesday morning, we had the privilege of visiting Hutchison Ports YANTIAN, one of the most important container ports in China and a key player in the global shipping industry. Our visit provided a fascinating glimpse into the history and rapid growth of this port, which has developed in parallel with Shenzhen's remarkable transformation from a small fishing village into the mega-city it is today.

We began by learning about the history of YANTIAN, which mirrors Shenzhen's own extraordinary rise. The port was established in the early 1990s, at a time when Shenzhen was emerging as one of China’s first Special Economic Zones. Since then, YANTIAN has grown into a preferred port of call for mega container vessels in South China, handling a substantial share of the country’s export traffic. The scale of its operations is truly impressive, reflecting not only the growth of Shenzhen but also the region's pivotal role in global trade. Today, YANTIAN plays host to more than 40 major shipping lines, which operate around 100 weekly services. This extensive network spans across the globe, connecting China with major markets in Europe, North America, and beyond. We were amazed to learn how YANTIAN’s strategic location and world-class facilities allow it to handle some of the largest container ships in the world, ensuring that goods flow efficiently in and out of one of the world’s busiest economic regions.

Throughout our visit, it was clear that Hutchison Ports YANTIAN has played a central role in the economic success of Shenzhen, supporting its transition into a global city. The port’s ongoing investments in technology and sustainability are also helping to shape the future of shipping, as YANTIAN continues to enhance its operations to meet the growing demands of international trade. Our time at YANTIAN gave us a deeper understanding of the crucial role this port plays, not just for China, but for global commerce. The visit left us with a lasting impression of the port's importance and how it continues to drive economic growth both locally and internationally.

Eugster Frismag is a Swiss family-owned business with manufacturing sites in Shenzhen, China and Portugal. The company is headquartered in Amriswil, Switzerland and focuses on the development and manufacturing of electronic devices. EF maintains a close relationship to their customers, listen closely to understand their needs and guide them through the research and design of electronic products. Furthermore, with their modern, automated and smart production lines, they offer fast and cost-efficient serial production.

Eugster Frismag is well-known for the production of capsule-based coffee machines, as we know them from famous brands such as Nespresso, De'Longhi, etc. During our visit we gained insights in all their production steps for these coffee machines, which exist of more than 200 single parts. During the process, we could see many robots and co-bots in action, enabling fully and partially automated production steps, relieving employees from heavy lifting tasks, activities in heated areas and allowing them to focus on more complex tasks. We could also observe the encounter of two fully automated fork-lifts, patiently waiting for each other to pass, before they went along, smoothly parking a stack of finished goods at the shipping area.

As one of the highlights of our field trip, it was very inspiring to meet Max, departing General Manager of Eugster Frismag China and a long serving employee of the company. He established the manufacturing site in China nearly 20 years ago and sprees passion and excitement for the company to this day. With his friendly and warm nature, Max built an Eugster Frismag family in China. He empathizes how EF values their employees. They conduct several social events during the year, provide a good working environment, and hold on to their employees, also in harder times. He also sees Swiss representatives in China as a non-neglectable part to establish and maintain the company culture as well as Swiss values and unite them with local beliefs. Max is also convinced, that only by staying open and doing business together, we will be able to establish strong partnerships and collaboration beyond borders.

Shenzhen Technology University (SZTU) is a relatively young institution, yet it has quickly established itself as a prominent center for technological innovation in China. Founded in 2010, SZTU was built in an astonishingly short span of three years. Today, the university includes 18 colleges covering 39 specialties, with plans for further expansion. This rapid growth is a testament to SZTU's commitment to providing high-quality education and encouraging a dynamic learning environment (and of course the famous “Shenzhen Speed” which we observed in many different companies and locations).

During our study field trip, we had the privilege of being welcomed by Dean Franz Raps, the Dean of the College of Urban Transportation and Logistics. Dean Raps provided us with a quick and informative tour of the college, offering valuable insights into the diverse range of student projects and extracurricular activities. The College of Urban Transportation and Logistics showcased a variety of innovative projects that are shaping the future of urban development. Students were actively engaged in research on topics such as intelligent transportation systems, logistics optimization, and sustainable urban planning. These projects demonstrate the practical application of theoretical knowledge and the potential for real-world impact.

The university offers students affordable on-campus housing, making it accessible to a wide range of students. Further aid is offered in form of scholarships to help with the semester fees which vary according to specific colleges. Additionally, SZTU features a unique supermarket that operates entirely on artificial intelligence. This innovative system eliminates the need for scanning products, providing a one-of-a-kind shopping experience only accessible with a valid student or faculty ID. Beyond the academic curriculum, SZTU offers a vibrant campus life filled with extracurricular activities. Students have the opportunity to participate in various clubs, sports teams, and cultural events. As we explored the campus, we were impressed by the modern infrastructure and state-of-the-art facilities. The classrooms, laboratories, and libraries are equipped with the latest technology, providing students with the tools they need to succeed in their studies. The campus also features beautiful green spaces, creating a conducive environment for learning and relaxation.

SZTU's commitment to innovation extends beyond its academic programs and facilities. The university actively encourages entrepreneurship and fosters a culture of creativity. Students have access to resources and support to develop their own business ideas and bring them to realisation. This entrepreneurial spirit is evident from the STZU mission and their innovative take on education: SZTU aims to establish itself as an international, high-level and demonstrative university of research and technology with Chinese characteristic and global outlook. Fully drawing on and introducing the advanced educational experience of leading technical universities in developed countries such as Germany and Switzerland, SZTU is committed to cultivating high-level applied talents such as engineers and designers with international perspectives, craftsmanship spirit and innovation capacity.  

Our visit to Shenzhen Technology University was not only insightful but also incredibly welcoming. Upon arrival, we were greeted with a warm reception and a delightful assortment of pastries and beverages, prepared by the STZU head chef, originally from France. This culinary treat provided a enjoyable start to our visit and showcased the university's commitment to providing a well-rounded experience for its students. During our conversations with the SZTU students, we had the opportunity to dive deeper into the experiences of SZTU campus life. We discussed the challenges they face in navigating the highly competitive academic landscape and the demanding job market. It became evident that securing a position in today's competitive job market requires exceptional skills and dedication (they literally have to be in the top 10% to be considered for many corporate entry positions). Many students at SZTU are actively pursuing opportunities for study abroad or internships to boost their CVs. These experiences not only broaden their horizons but also enhance their employability in the global market as overseas experience is valued throughout many industries. By gaining exposure to different cultures and educational systems, students can develop valuable skills and perspectives that set them apart from their peers.

Overall, our visit to Shenzhen Technology University was a truly informative experience and offered a good comparison to our previous visit to Guangzhou University. The university's rapid growth and focus on innovation are inspiring. We were impressed by the quality of education, the dedication of the faculty, and the enthusiasm of the students.

For further information please visit the university website: https://english.sztu.edu.cn/info/1004/2952.htm 

KK Mold (Shenzhen) Co., Ltd., established in 2004 and based in Shenzhen, China, is known for its expertise in precision mold design and manufacturing, including two-shot and multi-cavity molds for industries such as automotive, medical, and consumer electronics. On September 12th, we visited this company. The company’s owner, Mr. Huang Zhiqiang personally welcomed our group, hosting a traditional Chinese-style round-table lunch. The atmosphere was very warm and familial, with a generous amount of food and wine, and the owner engaged in toasts with the visitors throughout the meal. Having us was a special occasion for him and therefore, he hosted this lunch, otherwise, breaks are rather short for him. After lunch, Mr. Huang Zhiqiang departed, and his assistant guided us through the company's facilities, showing us various departments and production process, leaving a lasting impression of hospitality and inclusivity.

As part of our Master's in Business Information Systems program at FHNW University, we recently had the privilege of visiting Nio, the innovative Chinese car manufacturer, at their Nio House location in Shenzhen. This visit offered us a fascinating glimpse into how Nio is redefining the automotive industry through technological innovation and a strong emphasis on community.

Nio, established in 2014, has rapidly carved out a significant presence in the global automotive market. Despite being a relatively young company, it is already listed on stock exchanges in both China and the United States. This speaks volumes about their ambition and the confidence investors have in their vision.

Our visit began with a warm welcome, as Nio's exceptional hospitality set the tone for the day. We were treated to refreshments and snacks, creating an inviting atmosphere that encouraged open dialogue and engagement. The Nio team then delivered an insightful presentation, shedding light on the company's strategic direction, product offerings, and the unique services they provide.

A key highlight of the visit was the detailed walkthrough of their vehicles and recently added AI capabilities at the dealership. Nio's commitment to technological leadership was evident in the advanced features and design of their cars. However, what truly sets Nio apart is their dedication to creating an exceptional connected experience for their drivers. This is not just about the vehicles themselves, but about fostering a lifestyle and community around the Nio brand.

An integral part of this experience is Nio's extensive charging and battery swapping network. We had the opportunity to witness this firsthand during a drive, where the efficiency and convenience of their battery swapping stations were demonstrated. This innovative approach not only addresses range anxiety but also reinforces Nio's commitment to sustainability and user-centric solutions.

However, Nio's strategy of branching out into the competitive arenas of mobile phone design and lifestyle products raises some critical questions. Is this diversification truly necessary, or does it risk diluting their focus on core automotive innovations? Entering these competitive markets could stretch resources and potentially distract from their primary mission of leading in the electric vehicle sector. How will Nio ensure that these ventures complement rather than compete with their existing strategic goals?

In conclusion, our visit to Nio was an enlightening experience that underscored the company's unique approach to the automotive industry. By integrating technological innovation with a strong community focus, Nio is not only aiming to lead in the electric vehicle market but also to redefine what it means to be a car manufacturer in the modern age. This visit has provided us with valuable insights that will undoubtedly enrich our understanding of business information systems in a rapidly evolving industry.

PS: Unfortunately, I was having too much fun getting to know Nio's products and exploring their showroom that I forgot to take more pics, sorry!