* established stable company with serious industry recognition and few threatening competitors
* relatively non-bureaucratic company, makes it easy to be noticed
* good training opportunities: both on company's own technologies and external ones
* several branches worldwide, so occasional travel opportunities
* very understanding about employees' circumstances and private lives
* genuinely friendly HR staff
* up-to-date development tool set + Microsoft shop
Cons
* seems to be expanding outsourced development in Ukraine, might affect UK and US-based developers eventually
* UK office had occasional problems with temperature inside - and management did not tackle the problems seriously, only with quick fixes
Metastorm had a collegiate environment and clear communication from all levels of management. The business strategy was always well-articulated and absolutely clear. The American CEO was a familiar face in the UK and was genuinely approachable. Few (if any) barriers were put in the way of work.
Cons
Limited room for advancement - but commensurate with a company of its size. There were some inefficiencies, but overall innovation was rewarded.