Strength of Switzerland
Oct 8th, 2010 by Zheng (Kathy) Li
If there is a SWOT analysis for Switzerland, and if it is compared with a SWOT for Canada, R&D would be a strength for the Swiss while it would fit into the Weakness section for Canada.
Brands from Switzerland are known for their quality and innovation hub. Victorinox is the company that produces Swiss army knives and other products such as watches. However, they do not simply produce old-fashioned knives anymore. They have been using the latest technology for their products, equipping laser pointers and USB drives with the blades. The parts of the blades are now manufactured using finger-sized machines, so that employees could spend time developing new tools.
How did Switzerland become such a known innovator in the world? The government supports production of new products or improving existing technology. The Innovation Promotion Agency funds R&D related projects, unlike Canada’s mediocre and strict funding.
The once insignificant Switzerland is now leading in the race for R&D. They promote and accept new ideas for future innovations, which moves them forward at lightning speed. Canada, however, is currently lagging behind. Although R&D is a weakness for our country, it can also be made into an opportunity. Canada needs to advance and catch up to Switzerland in the race for new technology.
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