Valve Handbook for New Employees hits internet
"A fearless adventure in knowing what to do when no one's there telling you what to do."
The Valve Handbook for New Employees has hit the internet.
It reveals the Half-Life maker to be an agile company built on the premise that there are no managers, with each member of staff able to choose the project he or she is working on. The first edition of the handbook, published this year, is subtitled: "A fearless adventure in knowing what to do when no one's there telling you what to do."
A poster on flamehaus.com published the handbook, with Valve designer Greg Coomer's blessing. A pdf version is available to read.
The preface reads: "In 1996, we set out to make great games, but we knew back then that we had to first create a place that was designed to foster that greatness. A place where incredibly talented individuals are empowered to put their best work into the hands of millions of people, with very little in their way. This book is an abbreviated encapsulation of our guiding principles. As Valve continues to grow, we hope that these principles will serve each new person joining our ranks.
"If you are new to Valve, welcome. Although the goals in this book are important, it's really your ideas, talent, and energy that will keep Valve shining in the years ahead. Thanks for being here. Let's make great things."
There's plenty more in the handbook, including notes on three important facts about Valve: that it is self-funded; owns its intellectual property; and is more than a game company. There are nice illustrations and instructions on how to move your desk. No word on Half-Life 3, though.
