Hannah CHEN, Tim OU, Harry SUN, Kane WANG, and Grace XU formed a team for the DataDevelop Prize HK 2025, to address logistics challenges in Hong Kong’s retail sector. We focused on supporting small shops selling dried seafood and health supplements. Each member brought unique strengths: Hannah’s storytelling, Tim’s strategic insights, Harry’s financial expertise, Kane’s coordination, and Grace’s market analysis.
Despite a tight timeline and conflicting schedules, we divided tasks and used data-driven decision-making to reach consensus. Training sessions introduced us to frameworks like PESTLE and machine learning, which we applied to our solutions. Presenting to industry judges was a highlight. Winning second runner-up was a proud achievement, and we learned that teamwork, adaptability, and practical application of knowledge are essential for success.
Ms. CHEN Kai Yi Hannah
Mr. OU LetianTim
Mr. SUN Tianhao Harry
Mr. WANG Honglin Kane
Ms. XU Yingying Grace
Faculty of Business
Department of Logistics and Maritime Studies
The team learned to use frameworks such as PESTLE analysis to systematically evaluate the external factors affecting Hong Kong’s retail sector. This enabled them to identify key challenges like high storage costs, complex customs procedures, and shifting customer preferences, and to develop targeted solutions for small shops.
Faced with differing opinions and multiple pain points, the team adopted a data-driven approach. By using supply chain analytics and objective evaluation criteria, they ensured that their decisions were based on relevance, practicality, and innovation, rather than personal preferences, leading to more effective and justifiable strategies.
The project required practical financial analysis to ensure proposed solutions were affordable for small businesses. The team developed step-by-step implementation measures, starting with cost-effective actions like live-streaming and warehouse relocation, then scaling up, demonstrating the importance of financial feasibility in business planning.
The experience highlighted the value of effective teamwork. By dividing tasks according to each member’s strengths and schedules, the team maximized efficiency and ensured all aspects of the project—from research to presentation—were handled expertly. This approach also helped them overcome time constraints and conflicting schedules.
With only five days to prepare, the team learned to prioritize tasks and focus on essentials. They practiced making tough choices about what to include based on cost and impact, a crucial business skill for managing limited resources and tight deadlines in real-world projects.
The team had only five days to prepare while balancing coursework and exams. They quickly adapted by revising their workflow, dividing tasks according to each member’s strengths and availability. This experience reinforced the importance of being flexible and adjusting strategies in response to changing circumstances—a vital skill for lifelong learning and career success.
Faced with complex logistics challenges and diverse opinions, the team used frameworks like PESTLE and data-driven decision-making to objectively evaluate solutions. This honed their ability to analyze problems, weigh alternatives, and make informed decisions—skills essential for continuous learning and tackling new challenges.
The project required effective collaboration, especially when opinions differed. By focusing on the shared goal and leveraging each member’s expertise, the team learned to turn disagreements into constructive discussions. This experience highlighted the value of teamwork, communication, and respecting diverse perspectives—key lifelong learning skills in any environment.
Team members proactively sought out new knowledge, such as learning about machine learning models, innovation frameworks, and market analysis tools. Their willingness to step outside their comfort zones and independently acquire new skills demonstrates the importance of self-directed learning for personal and professional growth.
With limited time and resources, the team learned to prioritize tasks based on impact and feasibility. They focused on essentials and set aside less critical elements, developing strong time management and prioritization skills. These abilities are crucial for lifelong learning, enabling individuals to manage multiple responsibilities and make effective choices throughout their careers.
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