Pros
Systems Planning and Analysis (SPA) is a small company that really cares about its employees. The small size of the company allows for better networking across the company and the ability to understand what other divisions are working on. Additionally, the benefits package offered (automatic 401K contribution, health care, annual bonuses, and flexible work schedule) demonstrates the respect that Systems Planning and Analysis has for its employees. Additionally, analysts are given the opportunity to work on interesting tasks and given opportunities to lead others. SPA employees care about the work that they do and put great effort into their work, while taking time to enjoy working with one another. My biggest advice would be to get to know others from yours and other divisions, outside of work, to grow your social network.
Cons
SPA has a large number of employees who are either retired or former military. For those employees, the career progression is more rapid and clear. For junior employees who do not have a military background, it is more difficult to understand how to progress in the company other than to wait patiently to have served enough time to be promoted. SPA is aware of this issue and actively working with junior employees to establish a framework, however I cannot speak to this, because it was implemented after I left the company. I wish I had worked at SPA later in my career (who knows - I could go back later!) because overall, it's a great company with great people.
