Data Domain – “Management will the be factor that limits this company's growth, rather than product.”

Pros

They have a good product in the space they're in, and they're one of the few companies still hiring in the valley. There are many bright people employed in engineering who can continue to differentiate this product among others in their field. Storage is a difficult space for a new company to enter and they've managed to do this when few other companies can. People perceive they'll make money at this company which isn't something that has been seen for many years.

HR is run by many really good people who attempt to infuse their values throughout the company. That can't be said for many companies in the valley.

Cons

The company is run by a small group of insiders who don't understand business beyond thier areas of expertise. There is limited cross-company communicaiton. Management tends to hire above those who are already in place, but then ignores their input. It seems vitually impossible to penetrate into the founder's circle of influence. The company is run like a very small start-up which of course is no longer true. They created an enrivonment which speaks of work-life balance, but that is not the life of most people there. Most folks work killer hours and would leave if they could find a job. The bad economy keeps people entrenched at Data Domain.

Advice to Senior Management

Begin to communicate to your VPs and Directors who you've brought in as "experts".