Values & culture

ThoughtWorks was built around three axes of Attitude, Aptitude and Integrity. This goes back to our founder, Roy, and his belief that by building a company around these pillars the company would attract & retain the very best workers, deliver projects more effectively, on time and on budget and so be able to bring about a revolution in the IT industry.

Everyone we hire is considered in terms of their Attitude, Aptitude and Integrity - as well as Roy's special trust measure - 'would I let this person look after my child?' So when we say we hire for 'cultural fit' we mean that we hire like-minded people, those who share our principles, passion and dedication to excellence. Oh, and they had better be ready for anything. (Although, thankfully, not Roy's kids anymore - they are all grown up.)

ThoughtWorks doesn't just apply this measure to the people we hire - as part of our promise to our people we also apply the values and cultural fit test to the work we take on. This means we look to do work for companies who share our values and principles, and projects which we believe in. In addition to this filter, we are building out a successful and innovative social engagement model which means we can make a significant impact through our skills, even more so than by donating cash. Many current ThoughtWorkers are involved in ongoing projects with UNICEF and other non-profit organizations, helping solve fundamental human issues with technology.

Our values are:

• Customer commitment - Delighting our customers.
• Social responsibility - Creating a better world.
• Uncompromising principles - Respect. Openness. Humanity.
• Best people - An exceptional community.
• Fun - Have fun. Be passionate.
• Entrepreneurialism - Imagine. Pursue.
• Global - A transnational team.

Our Culture

Our culture can't really be explained in a paragraph. We don't wear suits. (Well, not often.) We work hard and we play hard, we have created an environment where you are working amongst the best, so being 'top of the class' isn't really an option, but being challenged is. This doesn't really explain much though - one of the best way to understand our values and culture is to read some of our people's blogs - hear directly from them what we are like as individuals and as an organisation. We hope you enjoy!