Australia's best tech employer--2nd place: Microsoft
MicrosoftEstablished: 1975
Staff: Over 600
Based: North Ryde, NSW
Score: 9/10
Although Microsoft is often a magnet for criticism, there is definitely something to be said for working at the world's biggest software developer.
While the employee surveys commented on everything from career development to high-level technology access, most were focused on high staff morale and team atmosphere.
According to HR manager Lorrin Maughan, Microsoft's recipe for success is a mixture of hiring the best in the field, and keeping an eye out for the most promising. Maughan also indicated that open channels of communication, ongoing employee reviews and an emphasis on internal promotion were all factors in the company's HR success.
If the employee surveys are anything to go by, Microsoft fosters healthy team spirit and provides its techies with a sense of autonomy.
"There are no limits imposed here and everyone is encouraged to go for what they want," commented one employee. "It may sound clichéd, but the team spirit here is awesome, and it's part of the reason I love coming to work every day."
And who was the worst? If you published that, the worst companies might actually be so embarrassed they might lift their game.