Pros
Highly political organization with exceptionally decentralized decision-making . This results in deeply entrenched silos that operate independently and without a common set of shared norms or values.
Cons
Passive-aggressive culture with a firmly established caste system. Faculty are firmly at the top of the organizational hierarchy and administrative staff are at the bottom. Was once told by a distinguished faculty member of organizational leadership , "Do not think--you are not paid to think." Lots of discussion around promoting career mobility, while behind the scenes senior leadership refers to employee movement as "poaching" of talent. HR is ineffective, at best, and generally of very questionable ethics and integrity. If you're seeking to make an impact on an organization and be treated fairly based on your abilities and contributions--look somewhere else. If you're looking to duck and cover your way to an eventual retirement (while constantly CYA) this is the HBS case study.