Pros
Let me share my point of view on recurring negative points in other reviews. They normally appear in the Cons section but I look at them as Pros, let’s see how. (I am not adding any other Pros or Cons myself, this is a post of reflection)
- Technology stack
Our customer base consists of huge multinationals who need stability, thorough testing and precise QA processes. Each application reflects the actual up-to-date technologies and design patterns of the time they were designed. Their age proves stability and well-thought architecture, a lot to learn from. In projects that started recently we use C#, Azure, Xamarine and other current platforms (Windows 8/10) and technologies as well, the ratio of these is constantly growing.
- Internal communication
We care about each other and circulate information. We listen and take complaints and other relevant information to places where they can be taken care of. We don’t do that with a deep hierarchical structure but with people talking to each other. I call that a caring company culture instead of people spying at each other.
It is also important to see this is a young and fast growing office that tripled in size in 3 years. Our mid-management layer is being built up on the go, a good opportunity for anyone to show and prove oneself. Experience is not gained overnight though, we can use any advice or help from anyone interested to improve the office.
- Career path
Our values and assessment system is special, we value soft skills, ownership and proactivity at least as much as several years of experience in certain technologies. Our business grows through relationships and professional attitude – people not fitting this culture leave one way or another. We also use a relatively high number of subcontractors for specific missions or shorter durations, their departure may also be perceived as unexpected ones for people not being aware.
People get promoted due to their added value to our business. These may not be seen or understood by others and this leads to envious comments or misunderstandings but we have the most detailed and transparent evaluation system I’ve ever come across – a legacy of the Swiss company.
- Overtime
Probably the only software development company I know that truly compensates overtime – provided it is due to increase of scope, changing priorities or workload, etc. Estimations given by teams need to be adhered to though and are not subject to extra payment.
Cons
Recruitment is continuously under pressure to find candidates who like the culture, the values and the job we do. This increases tension from time to time.