Aston University is where it all began. That was where the founders and directors of computer software developer Armstrong Consultants met and, since then, the self-declared “propeller heads” have gone from strength to strength. The key is a happy workforce and, according to our survey, Armstrong's staff are just that. They love working for the company and give an 85% positive score to that effect. Chris Bayne, the Hertfordshire firm's managing director, doesn't forget the early days: “When we formed the company more than 14 years ago, we decided Armstrong should be the sort of business that we the directors would want to work for ourselves.” A top 20 score of 85% for the leadership factor suggests Bayne and his fellow directors are still achieving that aim. Bayne inspires his staff (85%). The senior managers truly live the values of the organisation (89%) and have the full confidence of their employees (88%, ranking it ninth and 11th respectively). Almost a third of staff earn more than £45,000 and they are happy with their pay and benefits (82%). Compared to similar positions in other companies, employees feel they are paid fairly, scoring 77%. Pressure at work sometimes makes it hard for staff to concentrate. Armstrong employees rank this question at 70%, putting the firm in 86th place. However, staff don't feel stress at work is affecting their health (82%) and senior managers make a point of listening to employees (84%). Staff are excited about where Armstrong is going (85%), and not just for its next conference — the most recent one was held in Spain. Workers feel they can make a valuable contribution towards the success of the company (85%). Grove House Hospice, a local charity, is the company's adopted good cause this year. People are happy that Armstrong gives something back to the community (75%, ranking it 14th)