The office. Many of us haven't been there in a year. Some of us have returned intermittently, fully suited up in a mask and sporting hand sanitizer. Now, a few of us are starting to trickle back—a trickle that will turn into a steady flow as COVID-19 vaccinations gain momentum. Exactly how many of us will be back in our seats remains to be seen, of course, as there is a strong debate about whether work from home policies should be made permanent, or at the very least that flex work should be the norm. Lost is this debate is the meaning of the office. Sure, there is much discussion about the office being a hub of collaboration and the keeper of corporate culture. But for many employees, it is also seen as the embodiment of their employer. And for that reason—perhaps especially for that reas—our annual list of Best Places to Work is more relevant than ever, even as many offices remain empty. For the office means more than just open floor plans, snack bars and game rooms to employees. It also means the business mission, a company's treatment of its workers, its management's attitude to underlings, feelings of fellowship and the opportunities available for growth and promotion. It is these types of factors that go into our selection of Best Places to Work. As you read on, we think you will agree that we choose wisely.