Working for a Virtual CompanyWorking for a Virtual CompanyHow we do it at MySQLHow we do it at MySQL

Lenz Grimmer <lenz@grimmer.com>

http://lenzg.net/

2009-05-06, next09 Conference, Hamburg

David & MontyDavid & Monty

Make Superior Database Management Available and

Affordable to All.

MySQL AB, Jan 2008MySQL AB, Jan 2008

Distributed WorkforceDistributed Workforce● Good: Development & Support● Good: Consulting & Training● Good: Sales● Less suitable: Finance & Admin● Needs capable HR staff● Centralized upper management● Establish early

Passion and DisagreementPassion and Disagreement

Social AspectsSocial Aspects● Trust● Passion● Leadership● Self-Motivation● Open/direct communication● Different cultures● Work/life balance

AdvantagesAdvantages● Hire talent everywhere● Reduced costs for facilities● Time zone coverage● Less distractions● Setting your own work schedule

DisadvantagesDisadvantages● Work/life balance● Time zone differences● Isolation● Communication overhead● Decision making processes● Meeting colleagues means travelling● Travel restrictions (Visa)

RequirementsRequirements● Personal skills

● Communication● Language● System administration

● Fast/reliable Internet connection● Platform-neutral formats/protocols

Activities & IncentivesActivities & Incentives

Activities & IncentivesActivities & Incentives

● All-company meetings● Team meetings● Travel budget● Life@ Mailinglist● Global sports day● Global culture day

Collaboration ToolsCollaboration Tools

● Email / Mailing lists● Intranet / Wiki● IRC / Chat● Skype / VoIP● Eventum Issue Tracker● Conference calls

Thank you!

Lenz Grimmer<lenz@grimmer.com>

http://lenzg.net/

Questions / DiscussionQuestions / Discussion

MySQL AB, Jan 2008MySQL AB, Jan 2008● ~400 Employees, ~70% work from home● >25 Countries● Top 5: USA, Sweden, Germany, Russia and

Ireland● 10 subsidiaries/offices

(Uppsala, Cupertino, Munich)● No change due to Sun acquisition