The single word that matters most I think to keep the company productive as it grows is alignment.

We talk to a team they've gotten new things done, that's the best predictor we have that a company will be successful.

... but the pendulum has swung way out of whack here. A bad idea is still bad, and the pivot happy world we're in today feels suboptimal.

So if you want a culture where people work hard, & pay attention to detail, focus on the customer, are frugal: you have to do it yourself.

A third advantage of mission oriented companies, is that people outside the company are more willing to help you.

Move fast. Speed is one of your main advantages over large companies.

Some day everyone will find out everyone else's comp, if it's all over the place, it will be a complete meltdown disaster