What do butter tarts, bacon, and poutine have to do with software development?

I borrowed the title from the name of one of our internal chat rooms that we use to discuss the local Canadian office. That's not to say that our colleagues from other parts of the globe can't, or don't, drop in with curiosity. But, in general terms, this is where us "Canucks" discuss the unique happenings of our little, mostly frozen, part of the world. Distinctly Canadian issues, like coordinating our next outing to the curling rink.

This is one of my favourite (yes, with a 'u') parts of my company. Not just the fact that our largely US based company has a Canadian office, but the fact that we celebrate and embrace it. We have a distinctive brand within our company. My team is often just referred to as "The Canadians". When we visit the main office we are greeted with a mix of curiosity and good-natured ribbing. We have been guests (and regular targets) on our company podcast. All of this makes us feel welcome, and unique. It is a badge of honour worn by all members of my team. It gives us a collective identity. It has even gone as far as a rather funny introduction to a keynote speaker because he just happened to mention curling in his talk.

It really has nothing to do with being Canadian. Our company embraces the idea of hiring great people, wherever they are. Our Montana office is another great example. They certainly have their own brand and bring another set of unique qualities and experiences to the overall culture.

In the same way that companies look for diversity by hiring individuals from a variety of locations and backgrounds, having these remote offices helps to further create a varied and more diverse culture. It provides an opportunity for people to travel to other offices and experience different places for themselves. Where else would visiting colleagues be able to experience poutine?