The Potential of Digital Transformation - Member Story with TeamViewer

Member Story with Michael Lönne, Director, Corporate Affairs at TeamViewer
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We interviewed Michael Lönne, Director of Corporate Affairs at TeamViewer, a new Patron Member of AmCham Germany. Michael Lönne gives us insights regarding the challenges and successes of digital solutions in the midst of the ongoing pandemic. He further describes the potential of digital transformation and which policies and strategies can be implemented in Germany and what the transatlantic partnership can do to improve the technological industry. 

 

In what ways has TeamViewer helped enterprise users improve their efficiency?
TeamViewer software connects billions of people and devices globally to create a world that works better. In our 15-year history, a myriad of use cases has developed from the simple but powerful idea to control a computer remotely. Today, our solutions are transformative for operational efficiency across the entire Enterprise value-chain. From AR-guided field-service to predictive maintenance in smart factories to remotely operated medical equipment, TeamViewer integrates any technological landscape into a smarter whole, bringing economic impact to digital progress.

How has Covid-19 affected the success of the company? Which particular challenges has TeamViewer faced during the pandemic?
Covid-19 is a catalyst for digital transformation. Aside from the heavy burden it placed on global life, the pandemic has brought a surprisingly smooth transition into digital-first thinking. This should be reason for optimism as a sustained acceleration of digitalization holds the potential to better address global issues such as climate change. Like for many other companies, the new normal brought many operational challenges for us including the exponential growth of TeamViewer usage within just a couple of days in spring 2020. We were able to master the situation very well due to a resilient setup and strong teamwork around the globe.

What are particular challenges the technological industry is facing, especially in Germany, and what policies can be implemented to improve the situation?
A top challenge for Europe’s tech industry is the shortage of IT experts and skilled software engineers. While TeamViewer can attract suitable talent to power its global growth, the broader industry struggles with considerable development constraints resulting from this problem. In the absence of quick fixes, we need to double down on strategic reform ambitions for the entire education system as well as lifelong learning.

What strategies can Germany introduce to improve its technological standing and as a business location in the digital sector?
Technological sovereignty is an important objective but should not be the strategic North Star in a connected world – especially not for an export champion. Based on its leading profile in mechanical engineering, Germany has every reason to be very optimistic about the merging worlds of information technology and operational technology. To tap that potential, strategic debates should focus on digital levers for Germany’s world-class strengths, one of which is close-knit international collaboration.

How can transatlantic cooperation be improved to strengthen the technological industry?
A revived transatlantic friendship is crucial to address key challenges worldwide. For example, the importance of an excellent and continuous cooperation in the area of strategic cyber-security cannot be overstated. Generally, as in all matters, both sides of the pond benefit greatly from continuous and cordial dialogue. We see in our daily business interactions that there is significant US interest regarding Germany’s leadership potential in digital transformation.

Thank you for your insights, Mr. Lönne. A warm welcome to TeamViewer as our new Patron member!

 

For more detailed information please contact:

Heather Liermann

Head of Department

Membership Engagement & Development