Today many computer parts and desktop laptop computers are manufactured and assembled in low-wage China for global consumption. In Guangdong Province in South China, the computer, telecommunications, and consumer electronics industry have been growing tremendously.
Our research team selected five mainland Chinese supplier factories of brand-name computer corporations. By reviewing website information, journalistic articles, company notices, press statements, and annual work reports, we gained a general understanding about the supply chains. Between February and August 2006 we conducted field investigations and interviews with 40 production workers outside their plants. We approached the young male and female migrant workers individually rather than in focus groups. We explained that we were students and labor support workers conducting research about working conditions in the electronics industry. While some refused to help others were willing to share with us their concerns. We managed to do several follow-up interviews with those who trusted us most.