ACADEMIA

Software startup Interactive Supercomputing (ISC) has ranked among the best places to work in Massachusetts, according to Boston Business Journal. Based on direct employee feedback about life on the job, benefits and overall culture, Interactive Supercomputing ranked in the top 10 among all entrants in the emerging company category (10-24 employees). ISC is an M.I.T.-born start-up whose software transforms powerful parallel supercomputers into easy-to-use, interactive desktop tools for rapidly solving large scientific and engineering problems. It was one of more than 300 companies considered by the Boston Business Journal for the "2006 Best Places to Work" award. The honorees will be recognized in a special supplement to the June 23 edition of the publication. "Accommodating employees' personal needs pays back dividends of loyalty and productivity," said Boston Business Journal Publisher Michael Olivieri. "The companies on our list recognize that their commitment to employees is especially important as the economy strengthens and competition for talent continues to grow. The Best Places to work know the care of their employees is instrumental in maintaining the quality and reputation for services and products." Boston Business Journal began the award selection by contacting thousands of companies via e-mail and fax announcements, phone calls and newspaper ads. Throughout the spring, editors evaluated detailed surveys from more than 18,000 employees about company culture, pride, encouragement, recognition of achievement, and relationships with coworkers and supervisors. Employees also listed favorite and least favorite aspects of the company. Editors assigned points to each question and analyzed the results. "High-tech start-ups in full sprint mode can often be stressful and chaotic environments. One of our founding principles was to create a culture that attracts, supports and motivates the best people," said Pete Peterson, ISC's CEO. "Though we've only been in the public eye for less than a year, we're proud to be recognized by Boston Business Journal for establishing one of the State's best work environments."