Pros

The people working for ILOG form truly a unique group. Technical abilities, innovation and the overall quality of people within the company are far above the norm. It is difficult to find a more stimulating working environment for technical jobs, with a huge range of possibilities and a lot of flexibility. People working for this company, in particular in the technical positions, are hired for technical excellence as well as the ability to make decisions on their own and are given technical responsibilities accordingly.

Cons

When it comes to promotions and career advancement, there is no doubt that French citizens are far more likely to advance. In particular, higher levels of management could benefit from hearing other voices. If this were the case, the company would perhaps not be in the process of being acquired, as it now is.

Advice to Senior Management

Advice and decisions do not improve just because they're delivered in French.

Pros

Good company, good benefits. Does not lay off people often. Flexible work environment. Mostly good product line and market leader

Cons

Sluggish management is nothing but an old boys' club. You can't get fired if you work for the French organization, regardless of what you do/don't. To top heavy for an organization of it's size

Advice to Senior Management

Do not wait till the company burns down to get out next time. While all competitors did well, ILOG just stagnated. I can only pray for the poor souls who had stock options

Pros

very intelligent people, great vacation package, great reputation

Cons

Management is very average. Most Sr. management team is from France. Not that this is a bad thing in itself, but one wonders what happened to all the non -Europeans who generally make up majority of the consultants and programmers.

Advice to Senior Management

Fire the non-performing "friends of Sr. Management" management team