Job profiles
In this section, we would like to give you an impression of the diverse work and functional areas at NAVIGON.
M.B., Graduate in Computer Science (university of applied sciences)
I have worked for NAVIGON AG for almost two years, predominantly in the area of consumer products. The assignments range from maintenance and support of existing software to planning and implementation of completely new projects. My main task was the development of the new generation of our NAVIGON MobileNavigator|4 navigation system for Pocket PCs and MobilePhones. This involves more than just working together with other developers - I am also involved in planning the product design and user interface. A special challenge in this project was developing a new interface between our base components and the actual application, with the goal of simplifying the development of the MobileNavigator and other future applications. My area of operation varied, depending on the needs - previously I was mainly involved in technical development, but now I have a new, further function as project manager.
Sound education as the starting point
My start in the computer science profession began with studies at the Würzburg University of Applied Sciences, with a course of studies in computer science in technology. I added practical knowledge to my studies by preparing a diploma thesis at IBM Germany. Directly afterwards, I had the opportunity to keep going at NAVIGON AG as an entry level employee. Although I have completed my studies, there is still a lot to learn at the entry level, particularly handling different hardware platforms, such as PocketPC and MobilePhone, but embedded devices for the automotive area also presented new experiences and challenges.
Daily challenge
I enjoy the work at NAVIGON AG; the employees are real team workers and the working climate is extremely cooperative. Because NAVIGON is established at the forefront internationally in the mobile navigation segment, maintaining and further consolidating this top position through special products is always particularly motivating. We develop innovative ideas into new products, in order always to keep a step ahead of the competition. This means that the work is never boring, because the key is to implement new ideas and continue improving what is already there.
A.M., Graduate in Computer Science (university of applied sciences)
As a young employee at NAVIGON AG, I am responsible for development of the Navigon Configuration Kit (NCK). This is a product that is primarily for NAVIGON AG's corporate and industrial clients. The NCK was developed on the basis of the current MobileNavigator|4 (MN|4).
Well-considered actions required
As the responsible developer of the NCK, I implement new functions in already existing software and adapt this to possible new demands. Basically, this means carefully planning new requirements ahead of time, in order to integrate them according to the software standards and make them easy for other developers to understand. I especially enjoy the constant exchange of information with other developers, in order to be able to react to market developments and innovations.
Using existing knowledge
Before NAVIGON facilitated my start into the professional world of a software engineer, I studied computer science at the Würzburg University of Applied Sciences. The experience I gathered there in various software techniques and the internships I completed helped me to find my way in the company's work processes quickly. In this way, I could finally apply the mainly theoretical knowledge that I already had to real life. In dealing with programming interfaces with which I was already familiar, such as MFC or Win32 API, I was able to reinforce knowledge that I already had. What's more, I was able to gather new experiences in programming for other target platforms, such as Pocket PC operating systems.
Team spirit and further development
Thanks to the extremely friendly environment and the helpfulness of all my colleagues, I was quickly integrated into the team. It didn't take long until I was working on projects of my own. In order to do justice to the reputation of a market leader, the rule is always to develop high-quality products and to give one's best - this is a very special challenge for each and every employee. I really have the feeling that I developed my technical and personal skills with each project.
N.B., Trainee in the marketing & PR area
Hello! I have been a trainee at NAVIGON in the marketing & PR area since late summer 2004, as a part of my internship. I am studying business administration with an emphasis on marketing and corporate management.
The start
I established my first contact with NAVIGON and its business segments at this year's CeBIT fair as a stand promoter. This part-time work while I was a student also resulted in my chance to obtain the qualified internship. In this way, I had the possibility of gaining insights into the daily operative business by means of active integration in on-going projects. My areas of responsibility are as diverse as the entire range of activities in corporate communication matters. My assignments primarily cover the company's outward image.
First insights
An insight into the NAVIGON corporate identity forms one important aspect. In the business-to-business area, for example, this means the comprehensive provision of business cards or procurement of advertising materials, which can be individually mounted on company vehicles as needed. A further aspect is the creation and maintenance of materials that provide information for specific target groups. This included a project that involved cooperation in conjunction with automotive navigation. One of my tasks in corporate recruiting is shared responsibility for external advertising, which is used at universities and colleges throughout Germany.
Live experiences
For a planned MN|4 software demonstration video on the Web site, I went looking for a traffic jam. This may sound a little strange at first, but it makes sense, because route scenes were recorded during the navigation that were then included for illustrating, for the "live" character of the online demo.
Marketing plus PR
At the same time, I regularly take part in conceptual meetings and contextual trainings, for example, in status and strategy meetings. This gives me an important overview of the strategic aspects of NAVIGON's overall external communications and its products. For the PR area, I routinely research publications and see to distribution based on the target group. Dealings with media also play a role in my daily work.
Lasting decision
Why did I decide to start at NAVIGON? The first trade fair experiences I had at the CeBit already allowed me to take a first look at the company. NAVIGON is a medium-sized company, and, as an intern, I have the chance to take an integrated look into the department that I specifically selected. It is clearly advantageous that the tasks and goals of marketing and PR are so closely tied together. In this respect, I have a chance to take a comprehensive look at both communication areas. The trade fair job as a factor for my start was a positive experience in every respect, and one with lasting consequences: The company itself and its employees made a very congenial and positive impression on me.
Career outlook
NAVIGON is growing strongly, and the MobileNavigator|4 product is always in great demand. This development can have positive effects on the future of my career. After finishing my internship, I have the unique opportunity of writing my dissertation in co-operation with NAVIGON. And then? We'll just see if it is possible for NAVIGON to continue to show me the way.
