I think this post is worthwhile because Steve works for one of the best software development companies around and because he's an excellent programmer with a lo

I think this post is worthwhile because Steve works for one of the best software development companies around and because he's an excellent programmer with a lot of experience. He obviously knows what he's talking about. I think what's missing (perhaps because he's not the best person to describe it) is what a company on the wrong path can do to set things right. Google has obviously made a very conscious effort to keep their successful model as they've grown, bit many companies (especially those not started by techies) have made bad decisions. How can an IT department -- assuming the department itself gets it -- make things better? Unfortunately, lame parties are about the extent of the power most IT departments (or development team managers) have. They can't shift the entire culture of the company or start handing out astronomical rewards. There has to be a middle ground, and it's this middle ground that's so elusive. I would be interested in hearing how anyone has driven or been part of a lasting, positive change within the confines of a larger organization.