We’re thrilled to announce that Perficient has been included on Forbes’ 2026 list of America’s Best Midsize Employers. This prestigious recognition celebrates companies nationwide that excel in fostering supportive, empowering workplaces where colleagues can thrive.

This is the first year Perficient has earned an America’s Best Employers ranking, reflecting our ongoing commitment to building a culture that challenges, champions, and celebrates every colleague. It also reinforces our previous recognition as a 2025 USA Today Top Workplace and 2025 Professional Development Top Workplace, underscoring our dedication to building a people-centric culture. 

The Methodology Behind the List

To determine the America’s Best Midsize Employers list, Forbes partnered with market research firm Statista to independently survey more than 217,000 U.S. employees working at companies with at least 1,000 colleagues nationwide. The survey captures employees’ personal assessments of their current employer, as well as their evaluations of other organizations informed by previous roles, industry exposure, and secondhand knowledge from family and friends who have worked there. Their assessments spanned key areas such as professional development, compensation, company image, culture, and work environment. 

The results were combined with survey data collected over the past three years, prioritizing the most recent data and feedback from current employees to provide a holistic evaluation of each organization. Companies were grouped by size, with midsize organizations defined as having 1,000 to 5,000 employees and large organizations exceeding 5,000 employees.

Championing Our People and Empowering Our Communities

Perficient’s award-winning culture is shaped by the passion, collaboration, and diverse perspectives of our colleagues around the world. We foster genuine connections across our global organization through our Employee Resource Groups (ERGs), which empower every colleague to thrive both personally and professionally. These communities create an environment of inclusion and belonging across different interest areas while supporting colleague well-being and professional development.

READ MORE: Perficient Wins EX Impact Award for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging

Along with our ERGs, we are committed to making a meaningful difference in the communities where we live and work. Our corporate giving philosophy centers on advancing science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education and improving health and well-being. By investing in these initiatives, we are building brighter futures across our global communities and empowering the next generation of technology leaders.

Leading the Way in AI-First Expertise and Development

Perficient’s global team brings deep expertise across industries, technologies, and ecosystem partnerships to help the world’s most admired brands accelerate their AI-first future. Our Generative AI Innovation Group (IG) strengthens this momentum by connecting our clients, colleagues, partners, and investors around emerging generative AI tools and capabilities and the impact these technologies have on modern businesses.

READ MORE: Perficient Honored as a 2025 Technology Top Workplaces Winner

Our trusted partnerships with industry-leading technology innovators are shaping the next generation of agentic enterprises. These relationships not only elevate the value we deliver to clients but also enhance our own operations as we advance our AI-first mindset. Through our 360-degree partnerships with WRITER and Salesforce, we integrate our expertise with their agentic AI platforms to co-create tailored client solutions and deploy intelligent agents across our own organization.

Alongside our clients and partners, we are committed to investing in our people. From AI-first training programs to partner-specific bootcamps, we equip every colleague with the skills they need to succeed in an AI-driven world. We continue to evaluate and evolve our approach, providing development programming focused on four core areas: AI Technologies, Professional and Consulting Skills, Project Management and Delivery Excellence, and Leadership Development. 

Celebrating Our Culture and Shaping the Future Together

Our people-centric culture, commitment to our communities, and leadership in AI-driven innovation are the foundation of our award-winning workplace. Earning a place among America’s Best Midsize Employers affirms this and motivates us to continue fostering a culture of excellence where every colleague is empowered to grow and thrive.

This commitment extends to our AI-first mindset, which is grounded in agility, pragmatism, and collaborative innovation. We remain deeply invested in our colleagues’ professional development and empowering our people to lead at the cutting-edge of the rapidly evolving AI landscape.

READY TO GROW YOUR CAREER?  

It’s no secret our success is because of our people. No matter the technology or time zone, our colleagues are committed to delivering innovative, end-to-end digital solutions for the world’s most innovative companies, and we bring a collaborative spirit to every interaction. We’re always seeking the best and brightest to work with us. Join our team and experience a culture that challenges, champions, and celebrates our people.  

Visit our Careers page to see career opportunities and more!  

Go inside Life at Perficient and connect with us on LinkedIn, YouTube, X, Facebook, TikTok, and Instagram. 

Perficient’s vibrant culture thrives on collaboration, innovation, and a shared commitment to making a difference. We recently connected with Adrian Pop, a lead technical consultant based in Cluj-Napoca, Romania, who brings these qualities to his role at Perficient. For the past eight years, he has helped deliver transformative medical device solutions to healthcare clients while fostering a team environment built on trust, curiosity, and continuous learning. 

Adrian specializes in building and optimizing medical device technology, ensuring systems run reliably and communicate effectively. His work empowers healthcare teams and enhances patient outcomes worldwide. In this People of Perficient profile, explore how Adrian’s technical expertise and people-first approach strengthen our teams and create lasting impact for clients and communities. 

What is your role? Describe a typical day in the life. 

I’m a lead technical consultant. My day starts with a quick stand-up meeting to align the team on priorities, followed by code reviews and planning for the rest of the day. Between meetings, I remove roadblocks for teams, escalate risks, and carve out time for technical learning or automation work. 

How do you explain your job to family, friends, or children? 

I work on the technology behind medical devices, ensuring they run reliably and that different systems communicate seamlessly. It feels good to know my work supports healthcare teams and patients, and I’m proud to tell my family that what I do helps people. 

READ MORE: Understand How Perficient is Driving AI-Powered Transformation in Healthcare 

What keeps you at Perficient? Could you describe the team culture? 

What keeps me at Perficient is the people and the purpose behind my projects. My teammates have become friends who make the challenging work manageable, and I value that my projects directly help clinicians and patients. Those two things motivate me to show up and do my best. 

Working with my team and business unit feels like being part of a busy, friendly workshop. Everyone pitches in, shares knowledge, and we genuinely enjoy each other’s company. The culture is collaborative and supportive. Folks are curious and happy to help, even when we come from different backgrounds and perspectives.  

READ MORE: Discover Five Key Trends Shaping Medical Device Innovation and Experience  

Whether big or small, how do you make a difference for our clients, colleagues, communities, or teams? 

I clear obstacles, mentor others, and share practical knowledge through code reviews and pair sessions. Coaching my teammates is rewarding because that shared knowledge spreads beyond code. These efforts help my team deliver higher-quality work and grow more confident in their skills. I also take pride in knowing my technical work helps clinicians and patients by improving real-world medical device workflows. 

LEARN MORE: Perficient’s Medical Device Software Development Practice 

What has your experience at Perficient taught you? 

My time at Perficient has taught me to truly appreciate my teammates. We spend so much of our lives solving problems together, often continuing after hours, so those relationships matter. Having colleagues who are real friends makes the workday better, helps build trust under pressure, and turns tough sprints into shared wins. That camaraderie is one of the reasons I stay, learn, and show up every day. 

What advice would you give to colleagues who are starting their career with Perficient? 

Don’t be afraid to speak up or to make mistakes. That’s where learning happens. Ask questions, try new things, and share your ideas. Mistakes are feedback in disguise, and speaking up helps you build credibility faster than staying quiet. 

Why are you #ProudlyPerficient? 

I’m proud that my work positively impacts millions of people. I’m motivated by learning something new each day and knowing my work contributes to better health outcomes.  

I started my career at Perficient and never left. Hands-on projects, supportive mentors, and stretch opportunities helped me grow into a lead technical consultant. Along the way, I gained new skills and now mentor others. 

READ MORE: Learn How Perficient’s Award-Winning Culture Embraces Growth for Everyone 

With Perficient’s mission statement in mind, how do you shatter boundaries?  

I shatter boundaries by treating each day as a chance to learn and grow. My future is built on what I’ve learned so far and how I use those lessons to tackle bigger challenges. 

If you had to define yourself using one Perficient value, which would it be and why? 

I’d choose People because strong relationships make the work better. When we trust each other, we solve problems faster and deliver stronger results. 

What are you passionate about outside of work? 

I’m passionate about tennis, hiking, and watching sports. Tennis is my true passion, and I stay balanced by playing tennis with my colleagues. What started as after-work practice turned into real friendships that combine exercise, social time, and camaraderie all in one. 

It’s my goal to become more fit and mentally sharp through tennis, gym sessions, and regular hikes. Professionally, I want to improve my automation testing skills and continue helping others grow.

SEE MORE PEOPLE OF PERFICIENT   

It’s no secret that our success is because of our people. No matter the technology or time zone, our colleagues are committed to delivering innovative, end-to-end digital solutions for the world’s most admired brands, and we bring a collaborative spirit to every interaction. We’re always seeking the best and brightest to work with us. Join our team and experience a culture that challenges, champions, and celebrates our people.   

Learn more about what it’s like to work at Perficient at our Careers page. See open jobs or join our talent community for career tips, job openings, company updates, and more!   

Go inside Life at Perficient and connect with us on LinkedIn, YouTube, X, Facebook, and Instagram. 

Sankranti 2026 Hyderabad Office Celebration at Perficient

The Sankranti 2026 Hyderabad office celebration at Perficient was a vibrant showcase of tradition, creativity, and togetherness. Colleagues arrived in colorful ethnic attire, and the office was adorned with festive decorations that brought the spirit of Sankranti to life. The atmosphere was filled with joy as employees greeted one another, sharing stories of how the festival is celebrated in their homes and communities across India.

Rangoli and Kites Spark Creativity

One of the highlights of the Sankranti 2026 Hyderabad office celebration was the rangoli competition. Teams worked together to design intricate patterns that reflected cultural artistry and regional influences. Alongside this, the kite‑making challenge filled the day with laughter and friendly competition, reminding everyone of childhood traditions celebrated across India. The sight of colourful kites at the office became a symbol of freedom, creativity, and collective spirit.

Snacks and Shared Moments                                                                                  

No festival is complete without food. Traditional Sankranti snacks were served, creating a warm atmosphere where colleagues bonded over flavours that carried nostalgia. Employees shared memories of homemade sweets like ariselu and sakkinalu, connecting personal traditions with the workplace celebration. These simple moments of sharing  reinforced the sense of community within Perficient’s workplace.

Team Bonding During Sankranti 2026 Hyderabad Celebration

The celebration was more than just fun activities. Sankranti marks the harvest season in India, symbolising gratitude and new beginnings. By celebrating together, employees connected across departments, strengthening collaboration and inclusivity. Cultural events like these help build a workplace where diversity is celebrated and team spirit thrives. The day also reflected Perficient’s commitment to fostering an environment where traditions are honoured and employees feel valued.

Continuing Our Festive Tradition

Perficient’s Hyderabad office has always embraced cultural festivities. From Diwali to Christmas, and now Sankranti, each event adds to the collective memory of our workplace. These celebrations remind us that beyond deadlines and projects, we are a community that thrives on shared experiences.

You can revisit our previous Sankranti celebration here or explore more about how people in India celebrate Makar Sankranti (Pongal (Tamil Nadu), Uttarayan (Gujarat), Maghi Bihu/Bhogali Bihu (Assam), Poush Sankranti (West Bengal), and Maghi/Lohri (Punjab/Himachal Pradesh)).

We’ve all been there. Parents rushing out the door yelling, “Time to go!” Everyone piles into the car only to realize one kid forgot their jacket and the other never combed their hair. Frustrating! But where you feel frustration lies opportunity. An opportunity to communicate better by being explicit with our desires instead of implicit.

The same thing happens at work. You’re in a meeting and the key stakeholder says, “We should really do this thing better.” Sounds like action, right? But it is not! “we should” is a slippery slope because no one owns it. It sounds like progress, but it’s really just wishful thinking.

Implicit Statements

People, and even entire cultures, communicate in different ways. Some people are extroverted, others introverted. Where some are playful, others are serious.

While it’s far from universal, most people I’ve worked with lean toward implicit communication, especially in verbal conversations. And this is a problem. Implicit statements create confusion in projects, relationships, and life – regardless of your natural tendencies.

Many assume that being explicit sounds bossy or demanding. In reality, explicit communication isn’t controlling, it’s clarifying!

Why Implicit Communication Fails

Consider a statement like: “We need to do better at communicating.” Sounds clear and to the point, right? But it’s not. It certainly is short, polite, feels collaborative, and suggests improvement. But let’s break it down:

• “we” = Undefined responsibility. It sounds like teamwork, which is great in theory, but once the meeting ends, each person assumes “we” means someone else.
• “need to” = Wishful thinking. Why do we need to? What happens if we don’t? What if it takes a year or two?
• “do better” = Lack of expectation. People don’t share the same mental model. One person thinks 10% better, another imagines 10x better. And then there’s that one guy who thinks, “We’re fine. No changes needed.”
• “at communicating” = Vague. Are we talking about meetings? What about in emails? Or maybe they mean documentation, or work item ticket comments. What exactly isn’t working well right now?

Implicit language feels soft and nice, but it leaves too much room for interpretation and disconnect.

Explicit Directions

I earned my Eagle Scout rank when I was 16 years old. Those lessons have stuck with me through the years, and now that I’m a parent I’m relearning them as my kids go through Scouting. Recently, I sat in on a First Aid merit badge class with my youngest son, and the difference between implicit and explicit communication was made abundantly clear.

Picture an accident scene. A take-charge bystander shouts, “Someone call 911!” This sounds urgent, but it’s dangerously vague. Who is “someone”? Each second after an accident is critical, where uncertainty can cost lives. What if a dozen people nearby end up calling 911 at once? This is not good.

Instead, emergency preparedness training teaches us to be specific: “Sam, call 911!” Or, if you don’t know their name, point to them, make eye contact, even touch their shoulder and say, “You need to call 911!” Explicit directions save time, prevent confusion, and get results.

Why Explicit Communication Succeeds

Explicit communication gets things done. If tasks aren’t clearly assigned, nothing happens. That’s why project managers use RACI charts. These spell out who’s responsible and accountable, as well as who should be consulted and informed.

Being explicit creates a shared vision, prevents rework, and shortens timelines. When you leave details up to interpretation, someone will spend days perfecting something you didn’t want. We’ve all been there: you follow vague direction, deliver what you think is perfect, and then redo everything because expectations weren’t aligned.

Clear expectations reduce frustration. When two parties are upset, it’s almost always because something was left unsaid earlier. Even the smallest misunderstanding can spiral into an emotional mess.

6 Practical Communication Tips

1. Replace Vague Language – Be specific and targeted. Instead of, “We should update the deck.” Say, “Tara, update the deck with our new capabilities slides by end of day Thursday.”
2. Assign Ownership – Make it clear who is responsible. Example: “Alex, we need you to take lead on this.”
3. Include Timeframes – Set expectation or urgency. Instead of, “We need to have this ASAP.” Try, “Jane, at the very latest we need a final draft by noon on Tuesday. Sooner is better.”
4. Provide Context – Explain the “why” for relevance. Example: “Bill, the new component has to be built and tested by end of month so that it can be in production ahead of the new regulations taking affect.”
5. Confirm Understanding – Restate the desire and align. Instead of, “Abbey tells us that she’ll need 40 hours for this.” Rephrase it for confirmation like, “Abbey, you said you need 40 hours for this, so I think that means you need a week, right?”
6. Reiterate Assignments & Next Steps – End communications with a concise action plan. Example: “Next steps will be Todd getting legal approval by end of week, and then Sarah getting VP signatures by next Wednesday.”

Conclusion

Be clear. Be concise. Be explicit.

People aren’t mind readers! Drop the belief that being direct is a negative personality trait. It’s not bossy, it’s simply good communication.

Even if you’re emailing someone who “gets it,” think about what happens if that email is forwarded to someone else. Will the next person understand what you mean? Explicit communication isn’t just for now, it’s for anyone who might read it or hear it later.

Your Homework: Reach out today to that friend that always says, “We should do lunch sometime,” but you never do. This time, be explicit:

“Hey, do you have time for lunch in the next couple weeks?”

Bonus Points: Be intentional with it. Schedule your priorities.

“Would you be opposed to me putting a recurring monthly lunch on your calendar?”

……

If you are looking for a partner who can be explicit and get things done, reach out to your Perficient account manager or use our contact form to begin a conversation.

Empowering the Next Generation of AI Leaders: Perficient’s Continued Partnership With the Mark Cuban Foundation

For the fifth consecutive year, Perficient proudly partnered with the Mark Cuban Foundation to host free AI Bootcamps for high school students, continuing our shared mission to make technology education accessible and impactful. These bootcamps, held over three Saturdays in November, offer students hands-on experience with artificial intelligence and machine learning, helping them build skills that will shape their futures.

Focused Impact in Three Key Cities

This year, we brought the transformative AI Bootcamp experience to students in Plano, St. Louis, and Minneapolis, deepening our commitment to communities where we live and work. More than 80 students participated in this immersive program, exploring real-world applications of AI and gaining exposure to ethical considerations like fairness, transparency, and accountability in technology.

Specialized Learning Tracks and Real-World Challenges

Students had the opportunity to choose from specialized AI tracks such as healthcare, business development, and sports science—allowing them to explore AI through the lens of their personal interests. The bootcamp culminated in group presentations where students showcased AI-based solutions to real-world problems, demonstrating creativity, collaboration, and a growing mastery of the technology   

Mentorship That Makes a Difference

More than 20 Perficient colleagues volunteered as mentors, guiding students through technical concepts and soft skills like teamwork, communication, and problem-solving. These mentors shared their professional experiences, helping students understand how AI is used in industries ranging from digital strategy to healthcare innovation and beyond.

.  

Voices From Our Mentors

“Hosting our group of high school students at the Mark Cuban Foundation AI Bootcamp in Plano, Texas has been an inspiring experience. Watching young minds engage with artificial intelligence concepts, asking thoughtful questions, and collaborating on real-world challenges reminds me of the energy I felt when PCs and laptops were booming at the start of my career. It’s been a privilege to help spark their interest in technology and support the next generation of innovators.”
— Todd Forden, Senior Project Manager

“Witnessing the remarkable potential of the young minds that attended the Mark Cuban Foundation AI Bootcamp was energizing and inspiring for me as a leader. These students showed up with curiosity, resilience, and a ‘figure-it-out’ mindset that will undoubtedly position them well as they move into their futures. Having the opportunity to guide them through the program was extremely rewarding and something I’d recommend to anyone who has the opportunity.”

— Joey Running, Lead Business Consultant

“Being part of the Mark Cuban Foundation AI Bootcamp in St. Louis was an incredible experience. Seeing students dive into complex AI concepts with enthusiasm and creativity was truly inspiring. Their ability to collaborate, problem-solve, and present innovative ideas reminded me why programs like this are so important. It’s an honor to help open doors to technology and show these students what’s possible for their future.”

— Dave Stockmann, Director 

A Shared Commitment to STEM Education

We are honored to bring AI into the lives of these students and help unlock their potential. Our partnership with the Mark Cuban Foundation reflects our broader commitment to advancing STEM education, mentoring future leaders, and creating opportunities for all.

This year marked an exciting milestone in Perficient’s long-standing commitment to automotive innovation as we celebrated the third year of our Electrifying the Future of Automotive program. Since our launch in 2022, we’ve grown from a few partnerships to proudly sponsoring 12 Formula SAE and Formula Student teams that span the U.S. and, for the first time, Romania. This global expansion highlights our commitment to supporting innovation wherever it thrives, extending our reach beyond borders and into new communities of aspiring automotive leaders.

2025 Team Roster:

• Northwestern University
• Technical University of Cluj-Napoca
• Texas A&M University
• The Ohio State University
• University of Colorado, Boulder
• University of Georgia, Athens
• University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
• University of Minnesota, Twin Cities
• University of Missouri, Columbia
• University of North Carolina, Charlotte
• University of California, Irvine
• Washington University in St. Louis

Celebrating Innovation & Impact

At Perficient, we believe the future of automotive begins in the classroom and comes to life in the garage. That’s why we’re committed to empowering collegiate teams through Formula SAE and Formula Student competitions. These programs challenge students to design, build, and race formula-style vehicles, offering hands-on experience with cutting-edge technology and real-world problem-solving. Each season, these teams showcase their ingenuity on a global stage, laying the foundation for the breakthroughs that will shape tomorrow’s mobility landscape.

Our involvement with these teams goes far beyond financial support. Throughout the season, Perficient colleagues visited many of the teams we sponsor for garage tours and meet-and-greet sessions. These visits gave us the opportunity to connect directly with students, share insights from our work with global OEMs, and discuss digital transformation in the automotive industry. We’re proud to help bridge the gap between academic experience and industry expectations, preparing students not only for competition but also for successful careers.

From the Garage to the Grid: Empowering the Future of Engineering

Whether working with internal combustion or electric powertrains, these student teams are doing more than just racing—they’re redefining what’s possible. Their approach mirrors Perficient’s commitment to innovation and user-centric digital solutions, driving progress for today’s leading OEMs and the future of mobility.  By sharing our deep expertise in electrification, connected vehicles, and AI, we aim to inspire and empower these teams to think bigger, build smarter, and lead boldly.

Looking Ahead

As we close out the 2025 season, we’re more energized than ever to continue supporting the next generation of automotive leaders. The road ahead is innovative, connected, and full of opportunity, and we’re proud to be part of the journey.

“We are proud to support these Formula SAE students and teams. They represent the future of innovation and ingenuity that we at Perficient also strive for. We’re honored to support these future engineers as we continue to invest in this program.”

— Justin Huckins, Director of Digital Strategy and Automotive Industry Lead, Perficient

Perficient’s Automotive Expertise

Serving seven of the top 10 global OEMs and many more suppliers, dealers, and emerging mobility companies, Perficient’s automotive industry experts champion an AI-first, customer-centric approach to software-defined vehicles, electrification, and omnichannel commerce.

We’re excited to share that Energage has named Perficient a 2025 Technology Top Workplaces winner. This award showcases our commitment to building a people-first culture that champions, challenges, and celebrates every individual.  

We are proud to be one of only 28 organizations with more than 1,000 employees recognized for fostering an exceptional colleague experience in the technology industry. 

Earlier this year, Perficient was honored as a 2025 USA Today Top Workplace, marking our third consecutive year receiving a national top workplace distinction. Our 2025 Technology Top Workplace award is an extension of that program celebrating Perficient as an employer of choice in the technology industry—an achievement made possible by the voices of our people. Now, let’s explore what fuels our award-winning culture and makes our colleagues proudly Perficient.  

READ MORE: Perficient Scores Three Top Workplaces Culture Excellence Awards 

Our Award-Winning Partnerships and Collaborative Excellence  

As a global AI-first company, Perficient boldly advances business for the world’s most innovative companies and admired brands—shattering boundaries across industries, teams, and technologies. Our collaborative culture unites global strategists and technologists who bring world-class expertise and groundbreaking innovation to every challenge. By combining our deep knowledge with trusted partnerships alongside industry-leading technology innovators, we empower our clients with tailored, scalable AI-first solutions that accelerate digital transformation and drive long-term growth. 

As a result, we deliver high-impact, award-winning solutions that enhance business outcomes and unlock exceptional value for our clients. Our AI-first expertise and thought leadership have earned Perficient prestigious recognition, including the Business Intelligence Group’s 2025 Artificial Intelligence Excellence Award and a 2025 Gold Globee® Award for Best Artificial Intelligence Service Provider of the Year.  

LEARN MORE: Perficient Boldly Advances Business Through Technology Partnerships and Collaborative Innovation 

Our Commitment to Empowering Colleague Growth 

Perficient celebrates every individual’s personal and professional achievements, recognizing that growth looks different for everyone. Through our commitment to championing a collective growth mindset, we offer a system of professional development resources, training programs, and tools designed to empower our colleagues to reach their fullest potential. 

Our award-winning Growth for Everyone initiative provides a wide range of professional development programs, including Consultant Curriculum, Leading With Impact, and Learning to Lead. In 2024, we also launched Perficient Elevate, a program offering graduates of our leadership development courses exclusive access to on-demand curriculum and live sessions focused on leadership excellence.  

To further support career advancement, Perficient offers a robust suite of structured and self-guided resources. These include Career Paths, a resource outlining clear steps for career progression; a Career Development Toolkit and Leadership Toolkit; and Perficient Academy, a centralized platform with on-demand training materials. 

Uniting Our Global Workforce Through Meaningful Connections 

With nearly 7,000 colleagues worldwide, we are dedicated to fostering a culture of inclusion and belonging—where every voice is amplified, every perspective is valued, and every individual is empowered to thrive. Our global presence sparks genuine connections grounded in multicultural collaboration and shared understanding. This vibrant diversity fuels big thinking and breakthrough innovation, positioning us at the forefront of the fast-evolving digital landscape. 

We proudly offer five Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) and a Generative AI Innovation Group (IG) dedicated to promoting inclusion and belonging. These companywide communities provide spaces for knowledge sharing, professional development, and meaningful connection—such as our Women in Technology (WiT) ERG, championing educational and career growth for women and their allies, and our PRISM ERG, empowering the LGBTQ+ community and allies through community building and education. 

By cultivating an inclusive and equitable workplace, Perficient has earned the 2025 EX Impact Award in the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) category. This recognition, based on colleague feedback from our annual Employee Engagement Survey, stands as a powerful testament to our people-first culture and active participation across our ERGs. 

READ MORE: Perficient’s ERG and IG Communities 

Empowering Future Innovators: Our Commitment to Giving Back 

Beyond driving impact for our clients and colleagues, we are deeply committed to making a difference in the communities we serve. Anchored in Perficient’s corporate giving philosophy, we invest our time and talent into advancing science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education and improving the health and well-being of our communities. Here are just a couple of ways we’re forging a brighter future for the next generation of technology innovators.  

In partnership with the Mark Cuban Foundation, Perficient proudly hosts free AI Bootcamps for underserved high school students across the U.S., working to close the gap in AI education. Our dedicated colleagues volunteer as mentors, guiding students through AI concepts, real-world applications, and ethical considerations. In 2024, more than 100 Perficient colleagues served as mentors across seven AI Bootcamps, championing a more equitable digital future.  

Along with advancing AI education, Perficient’s Electrifying the Future of Automotive program is empowering collegiate Formula SAE and Formula Student teams to design, build, and race the next generation of formula-style racing cars. As part of the program, our colleagues meet with students to tour team garages, share how automotive companies work with Perficient, discuss career opportunities, and support each team as it competes in national and global competitions. In 2025, we’re proud to support 12 teams from leading universities across the U.S. and Romania, providing valuable academic and skill-building opportunities to accelerate automotive engineering innovation.  

READ MORE: Perficient’s Community Impact Report 

Our recognition as a 2025 Technology Top Workplace reflects our unwavering commitment to empowering our people, driving innovation, and making a difference in our communities. At the leading edge of the technology industry, we cultivate a people-centric culture that champions inclusive growth and shatters boundaries across teams and time zones. Together, we continue to forge the future of AI-powered technology with passion and purpose. Learn more about our award-winning culture on our Life at Perficient blog.  

READY TO GROW YOUR CAREER?  

It’s no secret our success is because of our people. No matter the technology or time zone, our colleagues are committed to delivering innovative, end-to-end digital solutions for the world’s biggest brands, and we bring a collaborative spirit to every interaction. We’re always seeking the best and brightest to work with us. Join our team and experience a culture that challenges, champions, and celebrates our people.  

Visit our Careers page to see career opportunities and more!  

Go inside Life at Perficient and connect with us on LinkedIn, YouTube, X, Facebook, TikTok, and Instagram. 

Even highly capable teams with solid plans can fall into the same ol’ traps. It’s not really our fault, human biases are hardwired into all of us. Awareness helps, but under pressure and tight deadlines, it’s tough to recognize these mental pitfalls in the moment.

Seven Common Human Bias Problem Areas

1. Optimism Bias – Wanting the best-case scenario but failing to plan for realistic outcomes.
2. Confirmation Bias – Seeking and remembering information that supports your original belief.
3. Anchoring Bias – Overly focusing on one piece of information (often first impressions) while ignoring others.
4. Sunk Cost Fallacy – Continuing investment because of past effort or money spent, even when it no longer makes sense.
5. Dunning-Kruger Effect – Overestimating your skills if you’re not an expert, or underestimating them if you are.
6. Groupthink – Aligning with the group to avoid conflict and seem agreeable.
7. Authority Bias – Going along with leadership’s opinion simply because of their position. This is also known as the HiPPO effect (Highest Paid Person’s Opinion).

The Result of Human Bias in Action

The seven biases listed above are just a few examples, but there are many more where our brains use shortcuts based on beliefs and past experiences instead of facts. In the rush to move fast, seem knowledgeable, and avoid problems, we often introduce new risks.

This might mean killing promising ideas too soon (confirmation bias), underestimating challenges (optimism), or spinning our wheels because we focus too much on sunk costs. Sometimes, the desire for consensus leads teams to follow the crowd or get swayed by less experienced voices.

I’ve been fascinated by human bias for years. Even knowing about these traps, I still catch myself falling into them. Just recently, I had to discuss optimism and sunk costs with my teams and clients.

How to Mitigate Human Bias in Projects

The biggest mistake is believing you are immune to bias. Our brains are wired to take these mental shortcuts to manage daily cognitive load. While it may seem futile to fight against it, the best choice is to build processes that protect us from our own instincts.

These safeguards fit well in Q2 of the Eisenhower Quadrants of Productivity because it is important but not urgent. Though we don’t often see it, Project Managers should include bias mitigation in their risk registers.

Here are other ways to reduce bias in your projects:

• Psychological Safety – Encourage open debate and let team members play devil’s advocate without fear…avoiding psychological barriers.
• Foster Diversity – Beyond nationality, race, and gender, include diversity in thinking styles, experiences, and expertise. Wild card team members can provide fresh perspectives.
• Track and Learn – Track and compare project estimates to actual outcomes. Use this data to identify patterns and improve over time.
• Rely on Process – Be intentional about setting up structured processes. Emerging AI tools can also help spot bias creeping into decisions.

Conclusion

Human biases hide in plain sight…even in teams that believe they’re being open-minded and careful. The best approach is to acknowledge this reality and commit to continuously challenging our own habits and instincts.

Perfection will never be achieved…we’re only human. But with awareness and intentional processes, we can get as close as possible. Bias is inevitable, but it can be managed and designed around.

……

If you are looking to aim for excellence despite ourselves, reach out to your Perficient account manager or use our contact form to begin a conversation.

Building on my last post about Delighting the Customer, let’s dive into how to respond to client feedback. A strong feedback loop is mission critical. To keep your client relationships at their best, you need to know what they are thinking.

Soliciting Formal Feedback

You need to be intentional about requesting feedback regularly and systematically.

At Perficient, we use a system called “Client Insights” to gather feedback throughout the project lifecycle. During onboarding, the project manager sets up automated feedback requests for key client contacts on a set cadence. Our goal is to get actionable feedback regularly from multiple people.

For my projects, I aim for quarterly requests and rotate contacts to avoid overwhelming anyone. The frequency and recipients depend on the project size and client’s team structure.

Insights from Informal Feedback

While our Client Insights system handles formal feedback, we don’t rely on automation alone.

Poor communication is one of the five obtrusive blockers to being a great servant leader. Informal feedback offers a different angle, because some clients skip automated requests or hold back negative comments to avoid conflict.

You can ask them for feedback informally anytime, whether that be one-on-one calls, emails, or chats. Some clients may open up more in private. Remember to also document and share informal feedback.

Receiving Positive Feedback

Positive feedback feels great, but don’t get complacent. Always take action. Share the kudos with your team. Everyone plays a part, so make sure they know they’re appreciated.

Then, don’t be obvious, but probe for constructive input anyway. Try something like, “That’s great to hear! I’m glad things are going well. But I aim for continual improvement, so are you sure there’s nothing small we could do better?”

Receiving Negative Feedback

Whether formal or informal, receive negative feedback graciously. Thank the client for sharing their perspective and assure them you’ll use it to strengthen the team. Give them confidence you’ll handle their input appropriately. Clients don’t want their feedback to cause strain on their relationships with the team. Offer to keep it anonymous and tailor how you share it with your team to avoid hurt feelings.

Leaders need the full details, but others only need actionable feedback. Instead of saying, “Bill thinks you don’t know what you’re doing,” try, “The client feels we might be spinning our wheels. What can we do to get back on track?” This softens the impact and aims for collaboration. As your teammate shares their perspective it allows you to say something like, “That sounds smart. Let’s aim to catch this sooner next time.”

Leadership’s Role in Feedback

We know client feedback is mission critical. Leaders should make sure formal feedback processes are in place, easy to use, and gather information that’s actionable. They should regularly review the feedback documentation and reports, watching trends over time.

Leaders can set goals for business units, smaller teams, and individuals. If a serious problem pops up, they might need to make tough calls like swapping out resources or even letting go of poor performers. Tough conversations can’t be avoided.

Lastly, leadership should share aggregated feedback data so everyone understands the types of feedback coming in. At Perficient, this happens in regular town hall meetings by each business unit. It gives everyone a baseline on how we’re doing, helps spot trends, and lets individuals compare their own experiences against the average.

A Personal Example

About a year ago, I helped onboard a new client. They were excited for a change from their previous agency but came with some built-in frustrations about their website’s platform and solution.

At the three-month mark, our Client Insights program received the first formal input. I knew there was some tension, but I was surprised when they gave us a one-star rating. Their comments were clear: they felt our team was slow, our hourly estimates were higher than they expected, and sometimes it seemed like we didn’t remember what they told us. Ouch! That’s not typical for us, and it was tough to hear.

The leadership team and I used some of the methods I mentioned earlier. We decomposed requests into smaller pieces and took a crawl, walk, run approach with bigger requests. With the client’s approval, we agreed to exclude QA and deploy hours from ticket estimates since that seemed to inflate sizing. Most importantly, we asked the client to help by making sure tickets had all the info, including screenshots, and our team made sure to ask for missing details immediately.

After that first negative review, the next feedback jumped to three stars! Most recently, we’re at four stars, with the client saying Perficient is becoming the partner they wanted. That is great to see! But we still have that last star to earn…and we will.

Conclusion

Client feedback is key to building strong relationships. Doing it right helps avoid surprises and solves problems early. It helps you understand what matters most to the client and each person on their team. With that, you build trust by following through and always aiming to improve.

Getting a perfect review feels awesome. A bad one? Not so much. But it can be satisfying to help your team bounce back and turn things around. Sometimes, though, ratings drop and things just don’t click. That’s a clear sign something needs to change. And sometimes, the required change might just be you.

When that happens, ask for help. Get advice from leadership, take some training, and work on improving yourself to better serve your clients. Start by assuming the problem is yours, then build from there.

……

If you are looking for a partner who craves client feedback and continual improvement, reach out to your Perficient account manager or use our contact form to begin a conversation.

In the last decade, “delighting the customer” has been quite popular in digital marketing. Clients have focused on user experience both online and offline. A delighted customer becomes loyal with brand affinity and drives long-term growth through positive word-of-mouth.

At Perficient, we manage two levels of delight: our clients and their customers. By delighting their customers, we also delight our clients.

In this article, I’ll share best practices for delighting clients and how to foster client feedback when they are not delighted.

Intentional Empathy

Treat others as you would want to be treated – intentionally. Listen to understand, then repeat back what you heard for validation. This approach helps you support the client’s goals rather than imposing your will. Your reactions to their comments speak volumes, so aim to be seen as a true partner.

Optimistic Realism

While we want to maintain a positive outlook, it’s important not to be overly optimistic. Clients seek reassurance that their partner is capable and ready to help. However, we must remain realistic. Overpromising can lead to dissatisfaction, so start with positivity then address potential challenges and how to mitigate them. North Star Goals fit nicely within this mindset.

Transparent Caution

You win grace with clients through transparency, but it’s important not to alarm them. You want to be open and honest at all times, but there is no need to overwhelm them with your fears and opinions. Overdoing it can create doubt, so be mindful of how you share feelings versus facts.

Six Delightful Wins

Here are some practical tips I use to delight clients:

• Start with a quick response. Don’t wait a week to reply. A basic question asked too late is embarrassing. You don’t want the client to feel unimportant.
• Send updates sooner than later. Hope is not a strategy. If things might go off track, warn the client right away. It’s better to overcommunicate and adjust later if they prefer less.
• Look for an initial fix, then a permanent solution. Clients appreciate speedy fixes. Identify the true pain point and see if there’s an immediate solution. You can always follow up with a more permanent fix later.
• Assume you are wrong. I like to say, “Assume the problem is yours, then prove otherwise.” This shows ownership and prevents defensiveness, which can waste the client’s time.
• Celebrate. All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy. People love to be celebrated and recognized. Spread positivity within the team and to the client to give everyone a reason to smile.
• Apologize. Apologies are free! If you miss something or handle a situation poorly, own up to it. Most clients will appreciate your humility and good intentions.

When the Client is Not Delighted

We don’t live in a perfect world, and it’s impossible to please everyone all the time. We’re fallible humans, and so we’ll continually struggle to meet these standards despite having the principles in place. It’s the pursuit of greatness that counts.

Sometimes, a client may simply be hard to please, or plans may fall apart. You might be overwhelmed with other work, or the team may not be the right fit for the task. Life happens, and there are many valid reasons for an unhappy client, despite your best efforts.

In these situations, it’s crucial to have a solid client feedback loop. This allows clients to voice their concerns safely, without fear of hurt feelings or repercussions. While you may have reasons for falling short, avoid becoming defensive. Instead, embrace the criticism and turn it into something constructive. Treat it as a lesson learned, adjust accordingly, and strive for continuous improvement.

……

If you are looking to be delighted by your digital agency, reach out to your Perficient account manager or use our contact form to begin a conversation.

The Perficient towers kick started January 2025 with Celebration of the festival Pongal celebrated on the Day 1 of Tamil Month Thai with the announcement for the following competitions. Rangoli Competition: Form a team of 5 to 8 members and showcase your creativity by crafting beautiful rangoli designs. Pongal Cooking Competition: Form a team of 5 to 10 members and display your culinary talents by preparing mouth-watering Pongal dishes.

Employees can participate in any one of the competitions. As I was interested in coloring and presentation to the judges, I saw this as an opportunity to give a try at competitions after almost a decade and enrolled to Participate in Rangoli competition to be held on 9th Jan 2025.

Team Pongolo Pongal:

Gayathri Narayanan is the lead for our Rangoli team “Pongalo Pongal”. At that time, she was the only person whom I know of in prior as she hosted Enable JIRA training when I joined Perficient. We were a team of 7. Gayathri, Nagapriya sundaramoorthy, Smitha Dutt, Kavitha mani, Sathya roopa Ganesan, Tamilarasi Manickam and me. The Theme given for the Rangoli is “Harvesting”. We had a quick teams meeting a day prior to the competition.

Ideas and Preparation:

Each team member pitched in their ideas for the rangoli. Team decided to incorporate latest technologies such as Drip irrigation, solar panels to power up the pumps and drones for fertilizer and seeds sowing and did our research for the inter cropping system used in kongu regions of Tamilnadu, India and incorporated it in our art and resourced small pots, few stencils, additional colors for representation of the traditional Pongal in our Rangoli. We informed HCM team regarding the colors and Quantity needed for the competition.

On the Day of the competition:

Colleagues were dressed up in ethnic wears. We were assigned a floor and the area where the Rangoli has to be made. I arrived early to collect the Materials from The HCM Team. Time allotted was 1 hour. Priya and Gayathri did the sketches. Roopa had a deployment on the day of the competition, but she managed to join us. Kavitha did the Tamil letterings. we made a small representation of the actual Pongal. Smitha, Tamilarasi and me did the coloring and I managed to do the scripting and the explanation of our theme to the judges, Kapildev Munusamy and Rahul Thombre and we quoted Thiru Kural

உழுதுண்டு வாழ்வாரே வாழ்வார்மற் றெல்லாம்
தொழுதுண்டு பின்செல் பவர்.

which explains to “They alone live who live by agriculture; all others lead a cringing, dependent life” which emphasizes the importance of Farmers. This event brought out the artistic side of the techies. The preparation and the execution of the competition was so fun and informative. We were one of the winners and were awarded gift vouchers.

The Real win- Conclusion:

The Team “Pongalo Pongal” formed only by the interest of colleagues across various floors/projects, and we networked outside our projects and had a chance to learn from each one of us who met only on the day of competition, but co- ordinated, worked on our strengths and finally won the competition. The networking and the friendship we achieved from the competition is the Real win.

Festivals are the heart of our culture, and at Perficient, we take pride in celebrating them with enthusiasm . On January 15th, 2025 our office came alive with the joy of  harvest season known with multiple names : Makar Sankranti, Pongal, Lohri, Bihu, and MakaraVilakku – festivals that mark the harvest season and symbolize gratitude, prosperity, and new beginnings.

A Glimpse into the Festivities

• Makar Sankranti is celebrated across India as a harvest festival and the transition of the sun into Capricorn, bringing longer days and warmer sunshine.

• Pongal, observed in Tamil Nadu, is a four-day festival dedicated to nature, symbolizing gratitude to the Sun God and the bountiful harvest.
• Lohri ,harvest fesival linked to the Punjab region celebrated by lighting bonfires, eating festive food, dancing and collecting gifts
• Bihu, the Assamese festival, celebrates the harvest with dance, music, and feasts, reflecting the spirit of community and joy.
• Makara Villakku, a part of the Sabarimala pilgrimage in Kerala, marks an auspicious day of devotion and light.

The most exciting activity of this season is flying kites, which symbolizes freedom, hope, and the joy of soaring high, reminding us to aim for greater heights.

Festive Day at Perficient

Our day began with employees arriving in traditional attire, adding a cultural touch to the office ambiance. Together we decorated the office and greeted each other with warmth and festive cheer.

The most exciting activity of the day was kite flying on the terrace. With the perfect windy weather on our side, employees teamed up to fly colorful kites, competing to bypass and “cut” each other’s strings, filling the air with laughter. It was a moment of nostalgia as we exchanged childhood memories of celebrating these festivals across different states. Having colleagues from diverse regions added richness to our conversations.

Back in the office premises, the energy continued with a game of tug-of-war. Employees formed separate teams of men and women, engaging in this competition. Togetherness and laughter turned this simple game into a fun-filled activity.

The celebrations concluded with delicious snacks: perfect way to wind down.

Conclusion

Beyond the decorations, games, and food, the day highlighted the beauty of our diversity and the bonds we build by embracing it. As we look forward to more such celebrations, we are reminded of the value of unity in diversity – a principle that enriches not just our workplace but also our lives. Here’s to many more moments of togetherness, joy, and success at Perficient!