Crunch mode is a tool. I have had two successful ones - they were both very similar - we had great communication with the management, clearly defined goals and

Crunch mode is a tool. I have had two successful ones - they were both very similar - we had great communication with the management, clearly defined goals and provided unwind time afterwards - and the company footed the bill. But the management lead by example - we were working long hours - the boss managed to show up earlier and leave later than us. The other times I have endured crunch mode (other many layered management company) were trainwrecks.