Exploring the 'Dao' of Search---Sun Liang

Exploring the  'Dao' of Search---Sun Liang

Speaker: Sun Liang

Zhejiang University alumni, originator of Tencent Soso

Return from the speech! I find that to be successful in IT area, insight is more important than techniques. Sun told us, Zhejiang University has location disadvantage, most of the outstanding ideas first appear in Beijing, student here sometimes cannot see that far. For example, at his day, they think the only way to make money is selling software. But in overseas, and in Beijing, they think of the Internet, the search engine. 

I asked 2 questions after Sun's speech.

1. It's said that Tencent is going to open a Tencent Research Lab. We all know Tencent is never lack of great engineers and great product designers, but it does not walk ahead in theory research area. Is this Lab indicate a turn point for Tencent's development strategy?

Sun replies, Tencent's RA mainly focus on client product development, in this sense, I think, it is still a product-oriented research. After all, Tencent is a commerce company, what it should do is to create commercial values.

Wish to do pure theoretic research? Don't go to Tencent.

2.Tencent is criticized for copying other's idea, its huge users credit to  its later success. How do you think of this comment?

Sun lists several innovations in Tencent's product including off-line message, QQ Show, group, etc. This is one part: to make existing product more perfect. Another part is scenario search. Yes, this counts for a brand new concept, and by making use of current multiple products, Soso can go far on this area. 

The greatest innovation of Tencent is its profit model.