The Smart Data Manifesto
Welcome to the Nerd Herd.
This manifesto reflects our collective values, guidelines, and principles. Together, we aim to build a culture that consistently outperforms any strategy and ensures that no job is left undone.
Full Transparency
Transparency is foundational to our culture. We believe in openness across all aspects of the business. Operational metrics, financials, and performance data are shared with employees—except where confidentiality is contractually mandated. We respect these boundaries but strive to avoid agreements that hinder our commitment to transparency.
Growth & Mentorship
Great talent inspires more talent. We prioritize personal and professional growth, and everyone at Smart Data is encouraged to be both a mentor and a learner. Growth is a shared responsibility, and we ensure that our team feels supported, motivated, and challenged to reach their full potential.
Small, Versatile & Driven
Our strength lies in keeping the team small, versatile, and focused. A tight-knit, passionate group aligned with our mission will consistently outperform larger, less cohesive teams. Here, every individual plays a key role and is empowered to contribute meaningfully.
Culture Trumps Strategy, Every Time
Our culture is the backbone of everything we do. While strategies may change and evolve, a robust and consistent culture enables us to adapt, innovate, and remain resilient. We believe culture is the driving force behind both personal and collective success at Smart Data.
Focus on the Right Things
Rather than perfecting the wrong approach, we aim to build the right thing adequately. We constantly evaluate whether we're on the right path and aren't afraid to pivot if needed. Time is our most valuable resource, and we use it wisely.
Debate & Unite
We welcome healthy, objective debates, encouraging diverse perspectives that sharpen our decision-making. Once a decision is reached, we unite as a team. This approach ensures we can act decisively and move forward together.
Decision-Making with Accountability
Accountability comes with empowerment. Those responsible for a task are given the authority, resources, and budget to see it through. By decentralizing decision-making, we ensure efficiency while maintaining responsibility.
Productivity & Contribution
We value meaningful outcomes over time spent at a desk. Contributions can come from anywhere and anytime if the work moves us forward. Engaged, mentally productive work will always matter more than simply being present.
Inclusivity & Respect
Respect and inclusivity are non-negotiable. We foster an environment where every voice is heard and valued. Smart Data is a place where people feel safe, respected, and empowered to bring their best selves to work.
Thrifty, Not Cheap
Financial responsibility is critical to long-term success. We are mindful of spending, ensuring high quality while protecting the company's financial health. Being thrifty doesn't mean cutting corners—it means being strategic with resources.
Work-Life Balance
Sustainable productivity comes from balance. We encourage a work-life culture that supports personal well-being, aiming for around six highly productive daily hours tailored to each individual's needs. We know that well-rested minds deliver better results.
There will be times when we need to do more. We strive to keep those periods short and infrequent. Going above and beyond shall always be appreciated but never be demanded.
Design-Driven
We embrace a human-centred design philosophy, where the customer's experience is always front and centre. Whether designing software or services, usability and value for the end-user guide every decision we make.
Internal Communications
For clarity and consistency, English will be our primary language for internal communications and documentation.
Sustainability & Doing Good
Our mission is to make a positive impact through data. Ethics guide every decision we make, even when profitability may be affected. Doing good will always take precedence over simply doing what's profitable.
Continuous Improvement
Creating a positive and productive culture is an ongoing process. Every member of the Nerd Herd contributes to making Smart Data the best workplace it can be. We are committed to improving every day and building a place we're all proud to be a part of.
You Are Not Done Until the Job Is Done
At Smart Data, we don't stop halfway. A task is only complete when fully executed and delivers its intended value. Every project is a team effort, and no one is finished until the entire team has crossed the finish line.
Professionalism Without Pretense
At Snjallgögn, we take our work and professionalism seriously but don't take ourselves too seriously. We approach challenges with focus and dedication but also know how to laugh, enjoy the process, and stay humble. Success is best achieved when it's paired with a sense of humour and humility. We strive for excellence without losing sight of the joy and creativity that make the journey worthwhile.
Startup 101: Preparing for the Journey Ahead
We understand the entrepreneurial spirit and believe many of our team members will continue to create their ventures once Smart Data reaches its full potential. That's why we hold "Startup 101" sessions to share the startup journey with our team.
These sessions offer practical insights into building a business and provide a lens through which to understand the company's challenges. We believe that by educating and inspiring our team in the principles of entrepreneurship, we're contributing to their future success—whether here or in their ventures.