Pros
Whew. The last two years were tough. Starting with furloughs, replacing CEO and most executives, then layoffs, and layoffs again. Halio (the new company name) is much leaner than before. 2020 was spent securing the financial footing of the company, and improving the product. 2021 was spent setting up partnerships, improving manufacturing, and improving the product. Now, in 2022, Halio is set up for success.
- Announced partnerships with Viracon (arguably the best glass fabricator for commercial buildings in North America) and Marvin (one of the highest quality residential window makers in North America) setting us up to deliver high quality product to customers.
- The new leadership's strategy is in full effect. 2022 is the year we find out if the strategy will be successful. Early indications are very positive.
- Halio has the best smart glass product for facades. It's not even close.
Cons
- Despite having raised a considerable round of investment near the end of 2021, the company leadership remains very frugal and laser focused on key performance metrics. Be prepared to repeatedly justify every single request no matter how small the ask.
- Compensation plans have lagged with minuscule raises in the last two years.
- Staff turnover is high (see compensation). Every departure hurts because anyone that survived the layoffs is a key employee.
- Smart glass is a large premium over standard glass. It's not an easy sell so adoption is slow. This company is more like a freight train than a rocket ship. Acceleration is slow, but once it gets going it's nearly unstoppable.