Quote:
Originally Posted by TheOmegaZoid
Actually I've spent time in Taiwan. I'm certain that Guo is not stupid. And on your part I wouldn't assume it was a joke. Apple makes sure that companies like his follow the bare minimum of standards. But those are very low. The whole reason Guo got the contract with Apple is because he could guarantee a cheaper price of manufacture as opposed to his rivals. How? By using cheap uneducated labor from China thereby paying the workers less. Jobs loves this kind of stuff!
And Apple went for it, because it leaves them more money to create new shiny toys for the masses, and build UFO style buildings out in sunny Cupertino.
Anyone whos looked at the way the Foxconn factories are managed knows that the Taipei Zoo comment was no joke. They really took it to heart.
Put down 'Das Kapital'? There couldn't be a better example than the difference of environment between Shenzhen, Cupertino.
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The China labor market is extremely competitive. You don't like your employer, money, benefits aren't good? Walk a few 100 yards to the next door and you will get a good deal there. Have you ever been on a factory floor? I have been in close to 1000. Yes, there is pressure, this is no picnic. Which is why workers are paid very well by local standards. Those who don't like it go into service industries. The environment in those modern factories in China is as good as in factories in the US. Working hours are strictly controlled (40 hours plus overtime, maximum 60 and heavy fines are being levied by the customers -- I can't confirm this personally for Apple, but for other major brands in various industries). Factories are spacious, clean, with many green and recreation areas for the workers. I have eaten in many workers' canteens. No, it is not up to Cupertino standards, but it is all quite pleasant. As far as a production environment can be. Factories like Foxconn have to be, to attract workers and customers.