Barclays Global Investors – “A great place to hang out during a recession.”

Pros

Work life balance is highly valued at BGI. Whereas many IT professionals sacrifice balance for career growth or financial rewards, at BGI this is not necessary.

Cons

Career growth for an IT professional is limited. Even though BGI has a large IT organization, it is managed primarily by career managers who often have little experience in the areas they manage. Worse yet, the product management presence at BGI is comprised primarily of MBA types with no experience in web products and who insist on a vertical top-down command style of product development. There doesn't seem to be a good working relationship between technical and design professionals and their in-house clients and product managers. I've witnessed BGI make many serious mistakes. If you'd like to relive the mistakes of 1998, then you'll love web development and online product development at BGI.

Advice to Senior Management

Hire some product management folks from outside your insular world and respect the talents, experiences and skills you have in house.