2009 Choice Employers Scorecard

Selection of the 2009 Choice Employers companies hinges on a 33-question survey conducted through Survey Monkey and exploring everything from company contributions to 401(k) plans to the availability of flex-time, domestic-partner benefits and tuition reimbursement for professional development.

Springfield Business Journal filled out the survey, too, just to gauge where we fit among similar-size companies. We registered a total score of 84.

The numbers on this chart speak for themselves. However, as with all Springfield Business Journal awards, it's important we remain objecive. To that end, Missouri State University's College of Business Administration stepped in to help verify the results, and overall ties were broken using an essay question that wasn't otherwise considered.

Having a great workplace, however, goes far beyond the dollars and cents of traditional benefits. Sure, insurance coverage, raises and the potential for bonuses are all important, but the goal of this publication is to share the stories of these 20 companies to give a more complete picture of why they are the 2009 Choice Employers. So settle in and start reading - you might just find some ideas you can take to your office and help it become a better place to work.Maria Hoover is features editor of Springfield Business Journal. She may be reached at mhoover@sbj.net.