For CIOs and their teams, the quest to transform their organization into a best place to work is reshaping the very definition of a great company. It goes beyond offering competitive salaries and traditional benefits. It’s about creating an environment that fosters innovation, values employee well-being, and promotes continuous growth.

Computerworld’s “Best Places to Work in IT 2024” report not only highlights these evolving standards but also provides a data-driven insight into the practices that distinguish top IT organizations from the rest.

Here’s an in-depth look at their winning strategies.

1. Putting People First

Top IT companies are redefining the workplace by prioritizing employee engagement and well-being. This approach goes beyond traditional benefits, focusing on creating a work environment that supports mental health, work-life balance, and job satisfaction.

For example, companies like Power Home Remodeling, ranked No. 3 among midsize companies, emphasize a culture of continuous learning and innovation. They invest in initiatives like the Power Code Academy, which offers career-changing opportunities to employees from various backgrounds, demonstrating a commitment to personal and professional growth.

2. Integrating Technology with Business Strategy

The survey shows an average increase of 9% in full-time IT headcount, reflecting the strategic integration of technology with business goals. GSK, ranked No. 2 among large companies, is a prime example, having expanded its IT staff by nearly 300 professionals this year. This expansion is driven by a focus on data analytics, AI initiatives, and the development of cutting-edge applications like an enterprise ChatGPT application, illustrating how technology is central to business strategy and growth.

3. Steady IT Hiring and Talent Development

The survey found that 86% of respondents increased their number of IT employees over the last three years, growing their teams by an average of 44%. This trend underscores the commitment to not only hiring skilled IT professionals but also nurturing and developing their talents.

Companies are creating novel pathways for reskilling and upskilling employees to adapt to a rapidly evolving technology landscape.

4. Cultivating a Diverse and Inclusive Work Environment

Companies like UKG, ranked No. 3 for diversity among large organizations, are setting ambitious representation goals, such as increasing the percentage of women in global tech roles. They are leveraging a variety of initiatives, including digital learning platforms and employee resource groups, to foster an inclusive and diverse work environment.

This approach is about more than just numbers; it’s about creating a culture where every employee feels valued and empowered.

5. Encouraging Career Advancement and Growth

An average of 15% of IT employees advanced into new positions in the last fiscal year. This statistic highlights the emphasis that top IT companies place on career development and internal mobility. By offering clear career paths, development programs, and training opportunities, these companies ensure their employees are always moving forward, as seen in the initiatives of companies like Power Home Remodeling.

6. Adapting to New Work Models

The survey found that 91% of firms have established formal policies for flexible work. Companies like East Frisian Tea Company, ranked No. 1 among small companies, are leading the way in adapting to these new models. They foster a collaborative culture with designated in-office days and open seating plans, encouraging teamwork and innovation in a hybrid work environment.

In fact, over half of the organizations surveyed have a hybrid IT workforce, with 32% fully remote. BCU, ranked No. 4 among small companies, exemplifies this trend with its flexible work policy, allowing employees to work effectively in any environment.

7. Focusing on Employee Wellness

Kinaxis, ranked No. 5 for midsize companies, places a strong emphasis on wellness benefits. They offer an on-site gym, free fitness classes, and host regular virtual fitness challenges. In 2022, 403 Kinaxis athletes participated in these challenges, logging nearly 185,000 hours in activity time. This focus on wellness helps employees manage work pressures, build bonds, and live healthier lifestyles.

The Wrap

Standout IT workplaces exemplify a harmonious blend of advanced technology with a deep commitment to employee engagement, well-being, and professional development. This combination is not just a formula for a positive work environment; it’s a strategic approach to attracting and retaining top talent in a competitive market.

Companies like Power Home Remodeling, with their focus on innovative learning cultures, and GSK, with their strategic integration of IT into business operations, demonstrate how investing in employee growth and technology innovation can create a dynamic and attractive workplace. BCU’s flexible work model and Kinaxis’s wellness initiatives further illustrate that understanding and catering to the diverse needs of employees are crucial for standing out as an employer of choice.

These practices do more than just create a desirable workplace. They position these organizations at the forefront of the tech industry, making them magnets for top-tier talent. By fostering environments where professionals can thrive, grow, and contribute to cutting-edge projects, these companies not only enhance their internal culture but also elevate their standing in the global market.