Reading pick - China’s new normal: How China sets the standard for innovation.

It looks like there is a new trend in company events and conferences to distribute books to guests. I got this one at the end of a Microsoft event (thank you Microsoft) focused on Smart Manufacturing, where the author, Pascal Coppens, made a ~1 hour speech on innovation in China.

I already have a long list of “to-read” books, and I usually put this kind of “gift books” at the end of the list, but I was so impressed by the speech of Pascal Coppens that I wanted to know more.

I was not disappointed! Pascal Coppens, a Belgian who lived and worked in China for a long time, shares lots of insights, not only about technology… but also (and that’s probably the most interesting point of view of this book) focusing on cultural differences between Belgian (European) and Chinese cultures.

In each of the 8 main sections (Smart Security, Smart Media & Entertainment, Smart Retail, Smart Finance & Insurance, Smart Mobility, Smart Manufacturing, Smart Health and Smart Education), compelling examples are illustrating Chinese’s impressive scale and speed when it comes to innovation.

China's targets are clearly expressed in the “Made in China 2025 plan”, with large ambitions in the sectors below. After having read this book, I am even more curious to follow how this plan will unfold.

Take-aways are given at the end of each chapter of the book, and to be sure to create the sense of urgency, there is even a “homework” for the reader in the conclusion.

Definitely was worth the read! This book should be sold with a plane ticket to China ;-)