Internship at Mercedes-Benz Accessories GmbH

Student Name: Raad Nasser Abdellatif Al Jughol

Student ID Number: 2009601014
Internship Duration: 01.03.2013 – 31.08.2013

(26 Weeks)

Team Leader / Supervisor(s) at Mercedes- Benz Accessories

Herr Peter Kabitzke/Frau Claudia Zoller & Frau Dorothea Mielcarek

___________________________________________________________________________

Advisor/Exchange Officer at GJU

Dr. Omaimah Al-Arja

___________________________________________________________________________
 Table of Contents

Table of Contents 1

Internship Introduction 2

Company / Institution Description 3

Internship Activities 6

Evaluation of the Internship 17

Conclusion of the Report 19

References 19

Summary in German 20

1
 Internship Introduction
Regarded as a first step in one’s future Career, applying to an internship is quite an important
task. Criteria and Job description help narrow down the search to suitable offers; however the
decision is always challenging. Mercedes-Benz Accessories GmbH, big names always have a
special temptation about them, and that is where I chose to conduct my Internship.

Reasons behind choosing this internship were simple yet compelling. As an architecture student,
not only did the Internship meet my Major’s criteria, it allowed me to be engaged specifically in
the field of Interior Architecture, planning and designing interior spaces for Mercedes-Benz
branches, auto houses and dealerships. This proved beneficial as a new experience and a new
challenge. Moreover, things became even clearer after the interview. The introduction to the
tasks, team members and working environment did nothing but encourage the idea even more, as
I found a friendly healthy atmosphere present.

In addition, my predecessor, a fellow architecture student at the GJU, had his International
Internship at the very same company and the very same position. Nothing but positive feedback
was given. The company was highly recommended for offering valuable job experience through
an intriguing learning process as well as providing a clear insight on Career life, aspects of
significance regarding future plans. Knowing that my predecessor had most importantly enjoyed
his Internship encouraged the decision. It was made clear that the company itself was welcoming,
and I had developed some comfort after seeing my fellow colleague’s work samples and desk.
This made the experience easier as it was not difficult fitting in the team.

Generally, my main task was assisting and supporting the team in Sales enhancement of the
various branches or showrooms and galleries distributed throughout Germany, as well as
worldwide. The process began with constructing drawings of the space itself. The proposal,
explained with the client’s needs and budget came next. Planning and designing followed through
integrating the MPS II system pre-designed by Daimler AG. Final Drawings, renderings and
representations of the work were produced for the client as well as for documentation of the
various projects.

The reasons mentioned earlier form a reasonable and firm idea as to why Mercedes-Benz
Accessories GmbH was chosen as the host company for my International Internship.

2
 Company/Institution Description
“Mercedes-Benz Accessories GmbH is a wholly owned subsidiary of Daimler AG. The company
is responsible for the development, selection and marketing of Genuine Accessories and
Collections for Mercedes-Benz, Maybach, SLR McLaren and smart passenger cars. Mercedes-
Benz Accessories GmbH also offers Collection products and Genuine Accessories for Mercedes-
Benz vans.” 1

The statement above presents the company simply and directly. Mercedes-Benz Accessories
GmbH is a 100% subsidiary of Daimler AG, offering genuine vehicle Accessories and stylish
Collection products, the company no longer restricts “Mercedes-Benz” to the driving experience.
The customer is given the freedom to personalize, customize and become unique. The line of
products falls into two categories: Genuine Accessories and Collection.

GENUINE ACCESSORIES

“The Genuine Accessories allow customers to individualize their vehicle as they please. Covering
the four areas of Exterior, Telematics, Interior as well as Cargo & Care, the product spectrum
provides tailor-made customization options for making any Mercedes-Benz, AMG or smart
model stand out even more clearly.“ 2

As for Genuine Accessories, this category relates directly to the vehicles. The customer has a
wide selection of both hardware and software custom made specifically for each vehicle model
type ranging from Roof boxes, Alloy wheels and Floor covers to Navigations programs and
Parking applications.

COLLECTION

“Nothing but the best – needless to say, this pledge applies to the products in the Mercedes-Benz
Collection, too. All articles are designed, developed and manufactured especially for Mercedes-
Benz.” 3

Undergoing a series of quality as well as safety tests, this category provides nothing but high end
products ranging from textiles, office items, gadgets, gifts as well as model cars. I have conducted
my internship in this part of the company, Collection.

For the duration of my internship, I was enlisted in the “Collection” department as a member of
the CDS team. CDS stands for Collection Direct Sales team, the team responsible for: organizing
various Mercedes-Benz Events, Customer Service regarding products and orders, in charge of the
Online Shop and Retail Management or Point of Sale Management. I was part of the Retail
Management unit which focused on sales-enhancing Presentation of MBA Collection and
technical accessories at Point of Sales in Germany as well as worldwide. This enhancement
featured the appropriate planning, designing and positioning of these terminals while applying
proper presentation techniques.

1
The Website: http://www.mercedes-benz-accessories.com
2
The Website: http://www.mercedes-benz-accessories.com
3
The Website: http://www.mercedes-benz-accessories.com
3
Facts & Figures

The company itself works in the manufacturing sector where products are both originally
designed and developed by Mercedes-Benz Accessories. As for its customers, the various
products being delivered attract several customer categories including private customers, retail
customers or event managers.

Located in Stuttgart Germany, the headquarter of the company serves as the center stage for
designing, developing and promoting the Genuine Accessories and Collection products. The
diagrams below provide a better understanding of the company’s organization, hierarchy and the
team which I was part of:
4

4
Daimler Mitarbeiter-Portal, Mercedes-Benz Accessories Intranet – Services „Organigramm-MBA“
4
 5

Below are some facts and figures about the company:

 Legal name: Mercedes-Benz Accessories GmbH

 Legal form: German Limited Liability Company
 Registered office: Am Wallgraben 125, 70565 Stuttgart
 Management: Christian Boucke (CEO), Martin Meuser
 Certification DIN EN ISO 9001:2008 and VDA 6.2:2004
 Year established: 2000
 Employees: around 2206

Company Address:

Mercedes-Benz Accessories GmbH

A Daimler AG Company

Horizont 2 Building
Am Wallgraben 125, 70565 Stuttgart
Germany

5
Daimler Mitarbeiter-Portal, Mercedes-Benz Accessories Intranet – Services „Organigramm-MBA“
6
The Website: http://www.mercedes-benz-
accessories.com/content/mba/mpc/mpc_mba_website/en/mpc_home/mba/home/company/themenuebersic
ht/facts.html
5
 Internship Activities
Usual Working day

Working conditions within a company set the tone for success. Optimum working conditions
generate a healthy atmosphere with the desire and motivation to work, consequently leading to
optimum results. At Mercedes-Benz Accessories, great care is taken to provide ideal working
conditions.

The offices provide the required space for equipment, movement and storage space. Office
design offers natural light and proper ventilation at all times, therefore the conditions are kept
fresh. These conditions result in the entire floor being a healthy atmosphere for carrying out the
daily tasks and activities. Well planned and distributed, both offices and facilities help the
employee work at ease. The social relationship between the employees is enhanced by the fact
that their offices as well as their team leaders’ are close to each other. Being engaged in social
activity actually helps the work flow. If help or approval is required then it is a single pace away.
The work itself is interconnected and thus the friendly, flexible atmosphere is achieved as it is
relatively simple to work in a team as well as with other teams. Facilities such as printer rooms,
kitchenettes and rest rooms are distributed to be easily accessible as well. Combining these
elements together, the working day starts joyfully.

Attending an introductory meeting on the first day, company policies and internship
requirements were thoroughly explained. Internship criteria require the intern to complete 8
working hours daily in addition to 40 minutes allocated for the lunch break. Hence, 40 working
hours are completed weekly. Entering the company in the morning has no fixed time, but
generally employees should be at work 9:30 a.m the latest. The working day starts with logging in
using the personal ID. Automated Log in – Log out keeps track of the employee’s working
hours, over hours, holidays and sick days. This is followed by logging in on the main server
through the individual workstations of employees in the offices. Using Microsoft Outlook as the
main communications tool, up-to-date E-mails as well as Calendar Events provide the tasks and
projects needed to start the working process of the day.

As the day progresses, tasks are being accomplished and projects are being completed. Working
within a certain time frame and pointing efforts in the right direction is important. Delays create
serious problems. Daily tasks fall accordingly into monthly schedules, quarter schedules and
yearly schedules, hence time management is vital. The diversity of tasks mixed with new learning
experiences helps to maintain the enthusiasm and motivation in this relaxed working
environment.

6
Unusual Working Day

Working for an international company brings about exposure to diverse learning experiences.
The usual working day routine is often interrupted with various activities. For the duration of the
internship, participation in team meetings, feedback and training sessions, team build-up exercises
and special tasks was extremely rewarding.

An important aspect in the field of interior architecture is understanding the space itself. Spatial
arrangement and relationships are crucial as there is a considerable amount of detail given to
interior works. When possible, site visits provided the best means of establishing that
understanding ultimately making the working process easier. Visiting old projects was helpful as
well; it creates a visual relation between the existing work and what needs to be done. On
occasions, clients or project managers offer more insight on the project from their own
perspective as well as providing project restrictions such as trends and budget. However,
harmonizing these elements together determines the success of the project.

Being a member of the team meant participating in team activities. Ranging from meetings and
feedback sessions to extracurricular activities, these activities are nothing but essential. The team
meeting conducted every two weeks keeps track of the work in progress. Additions, alterations
and problems are all discussed to ensure the smooth continuity of the work. Listening as well as
contributing was extremely beneficial. Monthly, a department meeting was conducted which
discussed goals and targets apart from individual tasks; a greater scale and a greater responsibility.
Team spirit was stimulated through these meetings as well as through team building exercises.

Whole day team building exercises portrayed the importance of social activity outside the
working environment. Not only are they great ice-breakers, these exercises expose potentials and
alter perspectives. Employee satisfaction is a valuable asset to any company. Not to mention, the
bond created between employees through activities such as weekly scheduled football matches
and birthday celebrations.

7
Challenges & Difficulties

The presence of challenges and difficulties is quite normal in any working environment.
However, adapting to and overcoming difficulties is an important part of the learning process
and extremely beneficial. During my internship at Mercedes-Benz Accessories, I have
encountered a few challenges nonetheless I have gained experience dealing with them and turned
them into my advantage.

Working in an international company blurs the lines between cultural differences. Having dealt
with projects in various regions of the world, employees acquire a better understanding of
cultural aspects. The relationship with my supervisors and co-workers was actually a mutual
learning experience in which interest was present from both sides. Sharing cultural trends made
my stay much more comfortable and I was engaged in several social activities. Not to mention
that my predecessor was a student from the same university. I was surprised as to the amount of
knowledge my new colleagues already had regarding social, political and religious aspects of my
very own culture. Consequently, the atmosphere was more accepting and welcoming which
reflected better on the working process.

Although the tasks and responsibilities were introduced by my supervisors thoroughly and clearly,
enough time was allocated to becoming well acquainted with the system and flow of work. Tasks
were immediately explained, examples from previous works were provided and it was never
difficult to ask or inquire. Not only supervisors, other team members as well, provided all the
help necessary in completing the tasks given. Familiarizing with the tasks was dealt with smoothly
however some aspects of the work needed more effort to achieve. Working simultaneously on
more than one task and distributing effort in between needed practice to accomplish. The same
can be said for time management as they are both equally important. Through practice, these
aspects improved and became even clearer. Mistakes, when present, were dealt with
professionally through constructive feedback and presented a motivation to improve. All in all,
every aspect of the internship is part of the learning process.

Language and communication skills form the basis on which the work can be accomplished.
German skills have greatly improved at the end of the internship as a result of the continuous
practice. The working environment exposes new levels of language skills as it is more formal and
professional oriented. Business terms and phrases offer new vocabulary and speech skills;
preparation is needed in presenting accomplished tasks and ideas appropriately to avoid
misunderstanding. Moreover, participating is equally important to practicing. It became quite
clear that the presence in meetings or discussions aids to the improvement of these skills.
Observing co-workers engaged in everyday situations proved to be very informative and
beneficial. Having taken part in several meetings on various occasions helped me realize the
importance of observation. Combining both observation and practice assists in acquiring the
maximum amount of information.

8
Team & Supervision

As mentioned in the ‘Company Description’, the company is divided into departments and
divides further into teams and teams sections forms the hierarchy and structure. Of the various
departments, my internship was conducted in the ‘Collection Department’ which divides further
into product licensing, product management and direct sales. I was part of the Retail management
subdivision on the direct sales section, Team CDS, and the nature of my tasks included the
enhancement of ‘Point of Sales’ terminals through planning and re-design as well as proper
presentation. The team is led by Mr. Peter Kabitzke (Team Leader/CDS) and my direct
supervisors were:

 Mrs. Claudia Zoller

 Ms. Dorothea Mielcarek

Reporting to my supervisors and team leader at all times was necessary and part of my
responsibility as an intern and when working in a team. Assistance was always provided regarding
the tasks given, inquires and any challenges or difficulties which may have risen. This aspect was
made comfortable since day one, as we shared a professional respectful relationship to create a
healthy working environment. Guidance as well as advice for future was also offered through the
various situations encountered. The same relationship was shared with all co-workers and other
team members as acquaintance was established through teamwork and other social activities.
During the interval time between projects I was introduced to various tasks while assisting other
team members. This added much experience and insight to the internship as well as opening
opportunities for the future.

9
Assigned Tasks & Work Experience

The main goal of the internship was to assist my supervisors in completing as much projects as
possible during my 6 month stay at the company. Projects were organized in a yearly program,
prioritized and then distributed among both supervisors. Variation existed between projects in
terms of scale, nature of requirements and location. The diversity among projects consistently
brought about new challenges.

As each and every project is different from the next, projects were mainly of two types: new
installations of MBA Product Presentation or modifying previously existing locations, both the
responsibility of the Retail Management department. In order to ensure the best revenue, careful
planning and ideal presentation techniques needed to be applied. The means in where and how
the products are presented is essential, therefore exploring the different options and finding the
optimum solution is quite challenging. However, during the process of data collection, a general
idea of the preferred outcome is formed.

Through client sessions and site visits, data and information essential for the completion of the
project were collected. Projects were directly delivered from my supervisors, analyzed, explained
and immediately put into work. The process of obtaining the results was systematic and the tasks
were accomplished step by step. The nature of the tasks was to implement the newly planned
design and present it in a suitable method for communicating with the client. Every project
undergoes the following tasks in order to reach the final outcome:

 Creating the space housing the Mercedes-Benz products.

 Planning and redesigning the zones in which the products will be displayed.
 Presenting the ideas and proposals in plans and 3-Dimentional representations.
 Preparing cost estimations calculating the project budget.

The starting point of any project is the space itself. The data collected from the project needs to
be visualized and simulated to enable further implementation of the designed proposal. Using the
architectural program, Nemetschek Allplan 2013, the floor plans are inserted or imported and an
initial print out is produced for the planning process. Printouts along with pictures were used in
the briefing session with my supervisors in which the client’s needs were clarified and an initial
proposal was suggested. Sharing opinions and thoughts, preferences and solutions a final decision
about the design is agreed upon. The next step is installing the Mercedes-Benz furniture
predesigned and installed in the Allplan program.

The diagrams below are extracts from the data collection process of the Mercedes-Benz Store
Den Haag, Netherlands project. Upon my supervisor’s site visit, I was briefed about the
project, client needs, and a discussion was conducted to determine the suitable solutions that we
will be offering as proposals. The client provided us with a presentation as well as documents and
plans necessary for commencing the project.

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The following slides
obtained from the
client’s presentation
aim at providing an
overview of the
project itself such as
location, number of
floors, floor
area…etc. aspects
that should be taken
into consideration
before deciding the
course of action.

This slide includes

both exterior and
interior shots of
the project which
aid in visualizing
the space itself.
Along with the
photographs taken
by my supervisor,
these shots give
information about
spatial
relationships and
construction
works as well.
8

This is all part of the briefing process which precedes any project and intends to establish general
information as well as being familiar with the project itself. Next, the planning process begins by
introducing the plans and proposals are immediately being discussed, taking into consideration
the information obtained from the slides above and client needs.

7
Overview, Client Presentation Den Haag, Netherlands (Property of Mercedes-Benz Accessories GmbH)
8
Client Presentation Den Haag, Netherlands (Property of Mercedes-Benz Accessories GmbH)
11
 9

10

9
Plans, Client Presentation, Den Haag, Netherlands (Property of Mercedes-Benz Accessories GmbH)
10
Ground Floor Plan, Client Presentation, Den Haag, Netherlands (Property of Mercedes-Benz Accessories
GmbH)
12
After the plans have been studied carefully and a decision has been reached for the proposals, the
plans are then imported into the Allplan 2013 program where the design process starts. This
phase includes refining the 2-dimentional plans in terms of representation, editing the plans so
that they resemble, as accurately as possible, the actual situation revealed through pictures,
installing the pre-designed Mercedes-Benz furniture and display units as part of the proposal. The
diagrams below represent the finalized Ground Floor and First Floor plans of the project:

11

12

Notable differences can be established between the old and the newly produced plans. The new
plans are intended to be as clear and as readable as possible for the client, they include both the
installed furniture as well as text and lettering elements describing the proposal.

11
Ground Floor Plan, Mercedes-Benz Store Den Haag, Netherlands (Property of Mercedes-Benz Accessories
GmbH)
12
First Floor Plan, Mercedes-Benz Store Den Haag, Netherlands (Property of Mercedes-Benz Accessories
GmbH)
13
Communicating ideas with the client is extremely important. It also determines the success or
failure of a project. For this reason, to enhance communication 3-Dimentional representations
were produced in parallel to the 2-Dimentional Drawings. These 3-D images help visualize the
proposal and give a clear idea of how the space will look like upon implementation.

13 14

15

The diagrams shown above are samples of the finalized renderings produced for this project.

13
Technical Accessories section, Mercedes-Benz Store Den Haag, Netherlands (Produced by Nemetschek
Allplan 2013) (Property of Mercedes-Benz Accessories GmbH)
14
Collection section, Mercedes-Benz Store Den Haag, Netherlands (Produced by Nemetschek Allplan 2013)
(Property of Mercedes-Benz Accessories GmbH)
15
Bistro & Waiting Area, Mercedes-Benz Store Den Haag, Netherlands (Produced by Nemetschek Allplan 2013)
(Property of Mercedes-Benz Accessories GmbH)
14
A cost estimation sheet is usually produced alongside the graphical representations. This sheet
add yet another valuable dimension and presents the client with a simpler decision process as to
implementing the proposal or making further changes. An example of this sheet is included
below.

16

16
Preliminary Cost Estimation, Mercedes-Benz Store Den Haag, Netherlands (Property of Mercedes-Benz
Accessories GmbH)
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Theory vs. Practice

After conducting my internship at Mercedes-Benz Accessories, both similarities and differences

were drawn between university education and practical application. Both are equally important
and complementary. The knowledge acquired during university education prepares the student
for career life, and in career life university knowledge is directly implemented.

The university acts as a preparatory stage, building up the student’s knowledge semester by
semester, course by course. This stage is essential as the more knowledge the student possesses
translates into the level of preparation and ultimately efficiency in career life. Better preparation
means better results. Time management is a clear example in this matter. During university
studies, time management is a skill introduced and a topic in need of being accustomed to,
however, this skill is implemented, put into practice and therefore further developed in everyday
life.

Furthermore, the level of responsibility is somewhat transcended during career life as projects are
realistic, actions and decisions have consequences. As an architecture student, this picture is quite
clearer as projects are no longer virtual; they are actually planned and implemented. In designing,
real life standards and conditions are taken into consideration; if the project is not implementable
then it is considered as a failure, needless to say that actually building a project and seeing the
work being constructed is much more rewarding. Another perspective is visualized when the
project is realized as a new field of knowledge is experienced including restrictions, limitations
and after effects. This perspective is necessary in completing the picture and complementing all
the work and preparation in the previous stage.

University education and practical application are quite similar and related yet a difference lies in
the outcomes and implementation. A person can achieve only a certain level of knowledge
theoretically; however, practice also needs preparation and a strong basis to build on. Situated in
a close relation, combining both theoretical and practical aspects expand one’s knowledge.

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 Evaluation of the Internship

Questions:

What skills and qualifications do you think you have gained from the internship?

Reflecting back on my Internship, I believe that I have acquired valuable skills and qualifications
that will definitely prove useful in my future career plans. This experience gave me a clear insight
on professional career life, what it feels like to be part of a team and how to work in one, the
importance of time management, establishing an efficient working process and being responsible
enough to take care of the tasks I was entrusted with. As an architecture student, communicating
and understanding the client’s needs as well as establishing a clear method of expressing ideas and
proposals were valuable skill additions. Not to mention, the clear improvement of my German
skills.

Did the internship meet your expectations?

The internship definitely met my expectations. Bearing in mind the outcomes of the Internship in
terms of skills, qualifications and experience I would definitely say that it was successful. Being
able to take part in cultural experience as well as team work would be regarded as fruitful.

What kind of responsibilities were you entrusted with during the internship period?

Individually, my main responsibility was accomplishing my required tasks. I was entrusted to

complete the tasks which I was given in the allocated time frame. As a team member,
responsibilities were focused towards the entire team, where individual work becomes part of the
overall team performance therefore it needed to be presented and well explained. Attending team
meetings and feedback sessions was very important. Furthermore, the main showroom, regarded
as the center stage of the company including the highlight products, was a responsibility for every
team member. The condition of the showroom very much reflected the company itself, therefore
at all times great care was directed towards it, in addition to keeping track of the items and
products constantly being brought in and out.

How do you think the internship will influence your future career plans?

Having acquired a much better understanding of professional and career life, I believe this
internship will be very influential in terms of my future career plans. Combining the set of skills
and qualifications which I possess with working in a new field of my studies is a real eye-opener
to new opportunities laying new paths ahead of my future career plans.

17
How do you think your internship activities are correlated with your university knowledge?

University knowledge acts as a preparatory stage forming an idea of what a working environment,
tasks and responsibilities are. Therefore, internship activities convert this hypothetical
atmosphere into an actual one, where these tasks and responsibilities are real and accounted for.
The student actually practices what he learns at university.

What were the main challenges/difficulties?

I believe as part of any job there are always challenges and difficulties assigned to it. As to my
internship the main difficulty would be German skills. Being the main method of
communication, the level of German greatly influences how smooth the working process is;
nevertheless my German skills have greatly improved as a result of this internship allowing for a
much more fluent flow of work.

How was the relationship with the internship supervisor and colleagues?

Throughout the entire internship, my relationship with my internship supervisor and colleagues
was professional, friendly and everyone showed the utmost respect towards each other.

Would you recommend this company for other GJU students?

I would definitely recommend this company to other students. Not only does this company live
up to its name, the amount of experience it offers is valuable. It was a well- rounded experience
with nothing but positive outcomes, an aspect which every student must seek to realize.

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 Report Conclusion
After completing my internship at Mercedes-Benz Accessories GmbH, I have built up a better
understanding and a better mindset towards professional career life. Consequently, I have drawn
a few conclusions from my personal experience.

Firstly, as an intern at any company, the intern is immediately faced with responsibilities.
Compliance and work ethics are issues entrusted to the intern and are to be regarded with utmost
importance. Clarifying this issue from the very beginning is vital for a seamless healthy working
environment; the intern understands both entrusted responsibilities and personal rights.
Secondly, communication is key. Working in a team, work efficiency depends on how well
different members of the team communicate. Communicating allows for a much better
understanding of the tasks given, progression of work, anticipating and dealing with problems as
they arise. Therefore, it is necessary at any given time to be able to give an idea on the current
tasks; time needed for completion and inform whenever difficulties arise. When present, these
communications skills create the healthy working environment increasing the work efficiency.

Thirdly, topics such as time management, coordination and multifunctioning are real, put into
practice and have consequences. Having the ability to manage time properly and multifunction
impacts all aspects of work. Failing to accomplish tasks on time has negative consequences which
are real. This is where these skills come into aid. Allocating appropriate time for each task while
simultaneously progressing through others requires preparation and organization. All of which
fall under the importance of having a well-structured efficient working process. Through
scheduling regular team meetings, discussions and feedback sessions the points mentioned above
can be achieved. Moreover, it is equally important to have extra team activities outside the
working environment. Having taken part in several, these are significant in their role of
encouraging team spirit, providing freedom of expression and breaking the ice.

Finally, dedication and devotion is a point worth mentioning. Devotion reflects positively in
one’s work and satisfies the supervisors and team members involved. Consequently, this aids the
entire team, when its members are producing high quality work, brings about more responsibility
and is the main reason for career advancement.

References
1. Daimler Mitarbeiter-Portal http://portal.e.corpintra.net/wps/myportal, Daimler AG
Intranet.
2. The Website: http://www.mercedes-benz-accessories.com
3. Documents produced during the internship at Mercedes-Benz Accessories GmbH
4. Information received during the itnernship period from my supervisors: Mrs. Claudia
Zoller/ Ms. Dorothea Miecarek

19
 Summary in German
Mein Praktikum habe ich im Zeitraum vom 01.03.2013 bis zum 31.08.2013 bei der Mercedes-
Benz Accessories GmbH am Standort Stuttgart-Vaihingen im Bereich Collection, Team CDS
absolviert.

„ Die Mercedes-Benz Accessories GmbH ist eine 100-prozentige Tochter der

Daimler AG und verantwortet die Entwicklung, Auswahl und Vermarktung von
Original-Zubehör und Kollektionsartikeln zur exklusiven Individualisierung von Fahrzeugen der
Marken Mercedes-Benz, AMG und smart“.

Im Jahr seiner Gründung in 2000 begann das Unternehmen mit einem kleinen Produkt-Portfolie
für MB PKW. Heute, nach 12 erfolgreichen Jahren, Mercedes-Benz Accessories GmbH
beschaeftigt circa 250 Mitarbeiter und stellt Produkte sowohl im Geschäftsfeld Zubehör (MB
PKW, Vans und smart) als auch in der Collection (z.B. MB PKW, MB NFZ, AMG

Durch mein Praktikum konnte ich wertvolle praktische Erfahrungen sammeln. Meine Aufgaben
waren zum sehr grossen Teil interessant. Meine Hauptaufgabe war der Präsentation von MB
Accessories und Collection im Autohaus, auf Messen und Veranstaltungen. Zu meinen Aufgaben
zaehlte die Vorbereitung von 2-D Plaene, 3-D Ansichten (Renderings) und manchmals
Kostenschaetzungen, die alle zusammen als Vorschlaege fuer Kunden benuzt werden.

Für meine Aufgaben war die Anwendung mehrerer Programme wie Microsoft Word. Excel,
Powerpoint und Outlook notwenig. Dazu habe ich die MBA-internen ETAS und SAP
Programme angewandt. Um meine Hauptaufgabe erfüllen zu können, habe ich mir Kenntnisse
im CAD Programm Nemetschek Allplan 2013 angeeignet.

Am Anfang meines Praktikums war die Sprache die größte Herausforderung. Das Verstehen
meiner Aufgabe sowie die Verständigung mit meinen Kollegen hing von meinen
Sprachkenntnissen ab. Ich stellte fest, dass Praxis der beste Weg ist, um meine Sprachkenntnisse
zu verbessern. Nach 6 Monaten der Praxis während meines Praktikums ist mein Gebrauch der
deutschen Sprache sehr viel besser geworden.

Meine Erwartungen und Ziele an das Praktikum haben sich voll erfuellt. Es hat mich als eine
Person geändert, und die Art geändert, wie ich an Architektur dachte. Abschliessend moechte ich
besonders meinem Chef Herr Kabitzke, meinen Betreuerinnen Fau Zoller, Frau Mielcarek und
dem Team CDS danken. Ich empfehle die Abteilung Collection als Praktikumsstelle. Ein
Praktikum dort war für mich eine sehr schöne Erfahrung.

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