Taiwan 2024: A Journey of Innovation and Collaboration

In the beginning of September, our co-director, Jens Krzywinski, embarked on an inspiring journey to Taiwan, marking a significant chapter in the Department of Speculative Transformation’s global outreach. His visit, which included attending Semicon Taiwan and exploring the dynamic design landscape of Taipei, reflects our commitment to merging cutting-edge engineering with visionary industrial design ideas from across the world.

A highlight of the visit was Jens’ time at the NTU D-School and the College of Design at NTUST, where he was particularly impressed by their forward-thinking educational models. These programs emphasize hands-on learning, creativity, and transdisciplinary collaboration, aligning perfectly with our ethos. Of special note was NTU D-School’s new transdisciplinary bachelor program, a powerful example of how design education can inspire action toward a more sustainable and innovative future.

At Semicon Taiwan, Jens engaged with some of the leading minds shaping the future of technology. The presentations by imec and NVIDIA underscored the pivotal role of design in the intersection of AI, 3D integration, and sustainability. NVIDIA’s introduction of their AI Workbench stood out as a game-changer in real-time hardware-software fusion, igniting fresh inspiration for speculative design approaches within our department.

The trip also provided valuable opportunities for strengthening international ties. During the Saxony Networking Dinner, Jens engaged with key figures from Taiwan’s semiconductor and design industries, opening the door to future partnerships. This was made possible by the efforts of Wirtschaftsförderung Sachsen GmbH, fostering connections that will support future collaborations between Saxony and Taiwan.

This experience has reinforced our belief in the power of global exchange and the critical role design plays in shaping the systems of tomorrow. We look forward to continuing to push the boundaries of innovation in collaboration with our new partners in Taiwan, exploring how speculative design can anticipate and influence future technological ecosystems.

Stay tuned as we deepen these connections and explore new avenues for innovation together!