Markus Daniel
Interview with Markus Daniel
Markus Daniel graduated with a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science in 2004 and is now managing partner at synyx GmbH & Co. KG, Karlsruhe
Why did you decide on this degree program?
I trained to be an electrician and have always been enthusiastic about computers. Therefore, I had already been working as an admin for smaller companies for more than five years and wanted to improve myself further.
On which subject did you focus for your studies?
For me, it was precisely the broad range of education offered at HKA that was exciting. I was interested in many different subjects besides computer science, e.g. intercultural communication, social psychology, communication training, management training.
What skills and experiences did you gain from your studies?
Many of the basics I acquired during my studies are still relevant today. For example, the basics of software development methodology, agile approaches to development, basic usability concepts, basics of technical writing.
What do you particularly like to think back on?
During my studies, I got to know Achim Arrasz and Thomas Kraft. Back then, we thought about self-employment and decided at one point, if not now, then never. Together we founded our company synyx. That was in 2002 and since then we have grown steadily and now have 76 great employees on our side. Actually, some employees who still work with us today were our fellow students back then. We had a great time with many exciting experiences that still connect us today.
How did you experience the move into self-employment?
We had the idea of self-employment actually at a party. It started as "let's give it a try” but quickly became serious. Over time and being honed professionally, the spontaneous idea turned into a solid income and a well-run business.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of self-employment?
One clear advantage of self-employment is, of course, freedom. You can design your everyday working life according to your needs and develop yourself. On the other hand, you take a risk and at some point you are responsible not only for yourself, but also for your employees.
Would you do it again?
Yes, definitely.
In which way do your studies influence you current work?
Thanks to the wide range of courses offered by the university, I was able to acquire knowledge from many areas for my future career. In addition to basic methods and strategies of software-related problem solving I also dealt with management and communication topics.
What are your current tasks?
I am involved in many areas, the organization of operations, the further development of the methodology and processes of agile development - less technical much more organizational, interpersonal and political.
What in particular do you enjoy about your work?
Definitely the variety. In my field of activity, things always remains exciting and I try to continuously improve synyx and myself. To do this, it is very important to always reflect, analyze and anticipate future developments. This is an ongoing process of change.
Would you say you have turned your hobby into a career?
Yes.
Apart from your professional work, what do you like to do as a balance in your free time?
I have 3 children, and they liven up my everyday life in addition to my work. Sports is also very important to me, it clears my head for new ideas.
What would you like to share with students or prospective students?
Projects very rarely fail because of technology but almost always because of communication. Communication is therefore enormously important, take advantage of any education in this regard. Karlsruhe University of Applied Sciences has a lot to offer in this regard :-)