Cuototo,
You made some very good points about working in Asia, especially for larger companies. For western people these companies seem totally confusing. We don’t see the bigger picture because our working attitude is completely different than theirs. Stealth management is pretty much normal and it won’t change in the next years to come.
To designers wishing to come here:
I’m sometimes surprised how western designers come here, think they know it all and think they can change their way of thinking.
If you can’t play by their rules don’t come here, bottom line. You’ll have to adjust and it will take a long time, learn Chinese before coming here and don’t think you’re a design star, cause designers here are very well skilled.
My advise for anyone coming to PRC or ROC, is to check the meaning of the word “GUANXI.”
The PRC and ROC are a great place for training like you mentioned and a great place to learn Chinese.
I’ve had the same experience like you Cuototo and I know that P³³A Design shouldn’t be taken too seriously.
Small design offices are better!!!