Tech profitability reinvested in the workers
Pros
Honestly I wasn't sure what I was getting into when I joined Assemble (formerly Inkstone). It's a small, 25-ish person team doing web and app stuff for big-box clients. Companies this size can be such a toss-up. Having worked here for more than a year now, I would tell almost anybody: if you have the chance to work at Assemble, take it. Assemble has a pretty flat structure, there's no stiff hierarchy. Everybody is treated equally. The atmosphere is casual and energetic. The benefits are great for such a small business. A lot of consulting companies pay lip service to being a "family" and "valuing employees" or whatever but Jeremy, the CEO, is the first businessperson I've ever witnessed actually, genuinely believing that stuff. I've seen him make technically "bad" business decisions–turning down ethically shady deals, and investing a premium in his employees–but the company appears to be doing very well. Flexible hours. Unlimited sick and PTO. Honest-to-god profit sharing bonuses. A nice office on the Fremont canal. We get catered lunch every single day. I find myself occasionally working late on projects just because they're fun and interesting. Everyone is relaxed and friendly. This is what a worker-friendly employer looks like, I think.
Cons
I can see how the lack of focused management and casual atmosphere could be a turnoff to some. If you crave structure, maybe it isn't the place for you. You've gotta be proactive and take care of stuff yourself. Who knows, maybe without a micromanager breathing down your neck you'll feel free to step up to the plate in ways you didn't think you could.
