Why are companies that grew steadily and were based on strong-knit friendships, like MSFT and QCOM a success, and those that grew rapidly more prone to failure? These comanies are over 15 years old each. But a bigger question is corporate culture. These companies seem to thrive on mutual hard work and respect, with some healthy competition thrown in. They both seem to value individuals; particularly smart individuals. From the outside they appear to be less "military" in their organizationial structure. It seems logical that it is much easier to rapidly build an army with a rigid process then a great corporation with a more relaxed culture. But building a great company that survives through growing pains relies on careful selection. Almost to the degree to which one should use to choose a mate. In his book TopGradingGeoff Smart created an interview process that is radically extensive. Time consuming, but as he points out, less so than picking the wrong person...or mate.