Ownership Fuels System Improvement

Mistakes in acquisitions are instructive, highlighting the importance of systemic learning within organizations. Employees feel a strong sense of ownership in their work, especially after many years, which fosters a commitment to improving the system. Unlike many Silicon Valley companies that operate as decentralized units, where individual teams are encouraged to be independent and entrepreneurial, organizations like Constellation cultivate a cohesive environment where team members perceive themselves as belonging to a larger whole. This sense of connection, coupled with reduced bureaucracy, creates a satisfying work atmosphere, even if compensation may not match that of larger tech firms. The focus on small, high-performance teams enhances the feeling of ownership and collective responsibility among employees.