Because we're not a pure software house but are instead in the movie business, we do a few things differently software development-wise. So, don't panic when Joel says "10 or lower, you've got serious problems." This is still a great place to work!
Here's a few notes on our Joel Score.
Do you use source control?
Yes, we use Perforce.
Can you make a build in one step?
Yes.
Do you make daily builds?
No. Because of the nature of our work, daily builds aren't useful for all projects. We do daily builds where it's useful.
Do you have a bug database?
Yes.
Do you fix bugs before writing new code?
Sometimes. Our priorities are driven by our movie release dates. In some cases it's more important to fix bugs, in others to add new features. We haven't missed a release date
yet!
Do you have an up-to-date schedule?
Yes, although our shifting, production-driven priorities mean that we need a lot more flexibility to quickly adjust our schedule.
Do you have a spec?
Yes.
Do programmers have quiet working conditions?
Yes. Our place is even nicer than Joel's place!
Do you use the best tools money can buy?
Yes.
Do you have testers?
Yes.
Do new candidates write code during their interview?
Yes.
Do you do hallway usability testing?
Yes.
