UKICC Quality Analyst Review

I thoroughly enjoyed the placement, as IBM had clearly invested a lot of time and effort into making the placement experience a memorable and enjoyable one. With a dedicated placement scheme, which has support for the transition from university to placement, as well as from placement back to university, it's unparalleled when it comes to this.

My colleagues showed my worth to the team from day one, making sure that I was always in the loop for everything, as well as giving all the appropriate guidance where needed. There was a lot of mutual respect, from all levels. Everyone was incredibly friendly and helpful, whilst giving training and guidance where needed too, so that I was never left to feel alone.

All training was provided when and where needed, with a hands-on approach at times too. Managers provided all resources and materials necessary for my role and for the placement, as well as guidance when needed.

I was always kept busy throughout each and every day, more so during the second half of my placement year. With various activities ranging from compiling reports to attending, chairing, or minuting meetings when needed. As well as carrying on with extra tasks in the background.

Plenty of responsibility was given during my placement. I took control of my own tasks, and was left to achieve them to the best of my abilities, with guidance where needed. I was in charge of whole sections of the role, which seemed daunting at first, but soon became accustomed to it. Chairing important meetings was also something I had to do, and something that showed IBM's trust in me as an individual.

Whilst I did apply for a technology based role through studying Computer Science, the role itself didn't particularly follow suit. There were reports to do, and a lot of Excel-based tasks, far from the coding and programming I had anticipated from what I had applied to. But, nevertheless, the skills developed are all transferable to a working environment, ranging from communication skills to team working and time management.

Whilst it was very quiet and toned down, the office's atmosphere was one that was friendly and very open. Everyone got along with everyone else, and it felt clutter-free and a pleasure to work in. It was dull at times, but that entirely depends on location and business sector.

IBM take pride in their placement scheme. With arguably the best one that any company has to offer, it's incredibly well set up, with relevant activities along the way, and constant check ups during the year. A dedicated placement manager is also assigned to each student to keep track of all individuals and ensure that they're coping well. And sessions regularly take place to train or inform individuals about activities and skills that can be learned and picked up along the way. Overall, it was very organised and felt like IBM was taking care of each individual.

IBM invest heavily in each individual. With out of role training as well as training for the role. Sessions can be attended to improve personal skills or gain understanding of new and emerging technologies or ideas. These all come together to create a unique experience that is a benefit when it comes to personal development and growth.

The company is forever changing and new technologies are emerging. With a heavy lean towards the cloud, and towards Watson, there's always future prospects for ambitious individuals hoping to stay ahead of the curve and invest in a future that is yet to come.

Yes there was, the constant monthly round tables, and events that were solely for placement students, enabled them to mingle and spend time together.

I personally commuted to my location on a regular basis rather than moved there. This took approximately 2 to 3 hours each way, and therefore an unhealthy negative from my perspective. However, the area seems quiet and relatively cheap as opposed to larger cities.

Unsure, never contributed to this.

Yes there were. There were plenty of volunteer activities, as well as organsied events that happened on a regular basis, these were often on a first come first serve basis, or a lot of the time also for everyone willing to attend.