Autodesk Reviews in Montreal, QC Area

Pros

Autodesk Media & Entertainment (formely Discreet Logic) is a relaxed work environment. The building itself is a renovated boat factory, giving it a very industrial-chic design. Fluo-colored chairs decorate the lobby, where you also find several high definition TVs on rolling pods. You will find the latest game consoles and games to relax during lunch hours or the always popular weekly cocktail on Friday afternoon. Beer, wines, chips and theatre-style popcorn are all available free of charge to wrap up the week. Major software releases are also celebrated with parties.

You will find very passionate people at Autodesk. Proud of their work and the reputation of their product suite.

Cons

Autodesk has recently become this software monster, swallowing smaller companies at an alarming rate. To the point that it now faces competition within its own product line (Maya vs 3D Studio Max). The acquisition of Discreet Logic is still not fully popular among the Montreal employees. Some relinquish the "glory days". This can leave newcomers wondering if they missed the boat. Recent compressions worldwide have also affected the morals in the company. Autodesk has a tradition of hiring lots of interns every single term, but the opportunities for employment beyond internships are slim at best. Furthermore, if an opportunity arises, there are string attached like a limited duration and few benefits.

Advice to Senior Management

Senior Management has to seriously get their product strategy figured out and communicate that information to its people. Not knowing what will happen to the fruit of your labor down the line is hurting product development and team spirit.

Pros

The people in the trenches at Autodesk Media & Entertainment are some of the best reasons to work there. With few exceptions, they're bright, motivated, and very capable.

Cons

The mid-level management can be uninspiring. Career paths are very difficult to come by. Employees have to make their own way in the company not only without support but often by fighting against their own management keeping them from growth opportunities. Favoritism and a sense of an "old boys club" can also be problematic.

Advice to Senior Management

Stop trying to be like every other company out there and recapture what made you innovative and cool -- that's how you attract the best. And giving them ways to grow and learn and progress in their careers is how you keep them.

Pros

Autodesk has a competitive compensation package. Hours are flexible, with the ability to work remotely at times. It's a great place to go work if you want 9-5 so that you can get home and raise your kids.

Cons

Middle and Senior Mgmt are not trained/experienced managers, but promoted for work done in development or sales. Many redundant systems for doing the same thing. Layers of middle managers/directors protecting their jobs, creates a heavily political environment. It's a place that you risk becoming stale if you don't continually push, many people who have stayed or come there because it's comfortable.

Advice to Senior Management

Decide on a course for development to follow, commit to it, communicate to your teams and your customers, make decisions based on where your customers need you to be.