Sharp Laboratories Reviews

Pros

- Good location near major city with easy access/commute - Entrepreneurial mindset across most of the organization - Largely project-based organization affords relative autonomy in research planning

Cons

- Recent takeover has largely gutted the organization - Relatively low turnover in upper management limits injection and adoption of fresh thinking and innovation - Minimal focus on exploring/implementing best practices. - Priority misalignment with Japan-based headquarters/funding sources creates friction, instability, and employee frustration - What was once a good company, is now just a shell of its former self. Picture an empty cubical farm with an ominous death rattle coming through the HVAC...

Pros

Good benefits, flexible work scheduling, excellent staff, and small company atmosphere. You can work on technology and see it in use by consumers quickly which is rewarding. People are diverse and support each other in good times and in tough times.

Cons

Sharp had a series of money losing years and didn't take action quickly enough leading to the takeover by Foxconn. They are pragmatic and want to restore Sharp brand and profitability but resulted in painful cuts to projects and staff. Those that remain however have good prospects with stronger funding and much larger worldwide operations. The ability of pivot to new products and markets is key.

Pros

Highly skilled and experienced team of individuals throughout the organization. Dedicated to delivering quality research and development across a wide variety of technical areas. Opportunity to create your own area of expertise and develop your own research.

Cons

Lack of clear and consistent direction from Parent organization. Recent takeover by Hon Hai is causing great stress and most folks are simply waiting for their severance package. Too bad because this place has great people and great resources. My low ratings reflect the present situation. I would not recommend this place my friend or even my enemies.

Pros

Good pay and benefits. A lot of great co-workers - work can be fun, not just work. Some incredibly smart people.

Cons

Environment feels a little stale. Lack of real leadership. Corporate management decision-making can leave you scratching your head. A lot of innovation that never goes anywhere (no link to product, projects worked on for years, then fizzle).

Pros

Great, talented colleagues Interesting and challenging projects Good work/life balance Competitive compensation and benefits Avoided mass layoffs or pay cuts despite parent company's problems (through good leadership)

Cons

Parent company (Sharp) has lost several billion dollars over the last few years, with no end in sight Retention is too good; poor performers are not challenged to improve or managed out of the organization leaving others to pick up their slack