Pros
#1 - Highly creative and intelligent workforce. Designers, engineers, builders, makers, doers, everyone has multiple areas of expertise which engenders new ideas that cross domains. Coworkers have a high level of respect for each other and all are encouraged to apply their talents in the areas that most excite them. #2 - The best projects here are those where Applied Minds is given leeway by the customer to develop creative solutions with as few restrictions as possible. That doesn't always happen, but often Applied Minds can go the extra mile, delivering work beyond what was asked for that convinces the customer of the need for more out-of-the-box thinking, earning future leeway. #3 - Office space is conducive to creativity: open, active, collaborative, with creature comforts but also stockpiles of the tools and equipment needed to work and produce. (The pandemic weighs on this pro, but the office is in use to the maximum extent allowed by law, hygeine, and common sense, and the teleworking policy is accommodating.)
Cons
#1 - Managers often have two or three skillsets more fully developed than "management": creativity, intelligence, and dedication do not evenly compensate for a lack of experience managing successful teams and projects. #2 - You must self-regulate and set personal boundaries on work. Fast-paced pushes and long hours to meet irregular deadlines are a common occurrence. Many projects inspire that sort of work cycle because the team is passionate about the project, and (speaking for myself) I have never received a demand to overwork myself in service of a deliverable, but it has certainly been encouraged. Work patterns ebb and flow. #3 - The principal, and his role, take some getting used to. His input is crucial to the success of all the company's best output, but some aspects of the project lifecycle can feel punishing and can catch you off guard until you are in tune with his communication style, both what to expect from him and what you are expected to bring to him.