On April 11, 2025, students, Professor Linning Cai from the Department of Industrial Engineering, and visiting professor Ming Li from Shandong Jianzhu University visited Xiaomi’s Changping Smart Factory and the Future Science and Technology City Campus in Beijing. The visit provided an in-depth look at how Xiaomi applies advanced technology and digital systems to redefine smart manufacturing and operations.

Group photo at Xiaomi Changping Smart Factory

At the Changping Smart Factory, the group toured the smartphone production line and observed Xiaomi’s Global Supply Chain (GSC) platform. This fully digitized, real-time system streamlines coordination and decision-making across departments. Students also saw how Xiaomi’s self-developed equipment and AI technology enable automated maintenance, reducing manual oversight and boosting cross-functional efficiency.

Hands-on learning: students engage with Xiaomi’s digital supply chain system

The visit further introduced Xiaomi’s Material Requirements Planning (MRP) strategy, supporting accurate procurement, inventory control, and production forecasting. Time of Commitment (TOC) models illustrated how Xiaomi aligns delivery with customer expectations. Sustainability efforts—including solar energy, water-saving systems, and energy-efficient technologies—showed how green innovation is embedded into operations.

Engaging discussion and gift exchange with Xiaomi representatives

The visit was made especially enriching thanks to the insights and hospitality of Factory Director Mr. Yi Zhou, Director Mr. Ximing Jiang, Associate Directors Mr. Ping’an Cai and Mr. Peng Xiong—a current student of the Department of Industrial Engineering—as well as other department heads. Through informative presentations and thoughtful discussions on platform thinking, digital supply chains, and sustainable manufacturing, the experience gave students valuable exposure to real-world applications of industrial engineering and inspired new thinking about the future of tech-enabled operations and leadership.

Group photo with Xiaomi representatives

Writer: Prabina Basnet

Photographers: Vakhabov Biloliddin, Peng Xiong

Reviewers: Liang Ma, Lefei Li