ROLM Corporation, Competing with Giants

This roundtable discussion by the four founders of ROLM Corporation will cover its founding in 1969, the start of a rugged mini-computer business using Data General software, and the introduction of an all-digital, computer-controlled telephone system that successfully competed against the giant Bell System. ROLM was purchased by IBM in 1984. During its 15 years, ROLM made significant contributions to the Silicon Valley Community. In addition to inserting modern technology into an archaic telephone world, ROLM pioneered such employee innovations as the Great Place to Work philosophy, Extended Service Leave, and the hiring and promotion of women in management positions.