Watch, understand, learn

Christian Deger’s job title has gotten pretty long over the years: as Head of Platform and Architecture, the software architect designs, steers, and coordinates the infrastructure of RIO’s cloud system to ensure that it meets the technical requirements of its users. The users in this case are developer teams using the cloud system at RIO, MAN, or Volkswagen Caminhões e Ônibus (VWCO). “Our users within the TRATON GROUP provide digital services in the fields of vehicle telematics, transportation, and logistics to end customers. It is up to me to create the ideal foundation for them to do so,” Deger explains.

“My job gives me a lot of freedom,” Christian Deger continues. The numerous stops he has had in his career have allowed him to gain experience and continue to develop and grow — from software developer to team leader, from software architect to head of an entire platform at RIO. His favorite thing about his current job is collaborating across functions and maintaining an end-to-end view. “The members of the RIO product teams combine different functions like product management, software development, quality assurance, operation, and maintenance,” Deger clarifies. “This puts each product team in the best possible position to take responsibility for its tasks from start to finish.”

When it comes to international projects, Deger’s tip is to watch, understand, and learn. “Each member of the team should be open-minded and question things that supposedly go without saying. That way, there is a chance you might be pleasantly surprised every once in a while,” says the software expert. Take the VWCO colleagues in Brazil, who also have access to the cloud platform. The way they used parts of it was completely different to what the architects had in mind — which meant they discovered new and promising opportunities. “Instead of jumping to conclusions, we should always keep an open mind. This allows us to learn from each other and to benefit from other approaches,” Deger believes.

The Munich-based architect is also a fan of digitalization at home: his flat is fully equipped with virtual assistants and smart lighting. Among other things, the lighting setup ensures that his Herman’s tortoises always get the right amount of light in the garden. His commute to work, on the other hand, is more traditional: his favorite way to get from his flat in the north of the city to the office is by bike. Unlike his new car, Deger’s bike does not have an electric motor. Instead, all the power comes from his legs: “The Head of Platform and Architecture should do the hard work himself when exercising,” he jokes. “It keeps you fit.”