In the heart of Wisconsin’s picturesque Verona, away from the bustling streets of New York City, Epic Systems’ sprawling 1,670-acre headquarters stands as a beacon of innovation. This tech giant, renowned for its omnipresent software within the healthcare industry, shelters a workforce dedicated to enhancing the tools that support medical professionals in their patient care endeavors.

Strolling through offices resembling scenes from whimsical tales or futuristic realms, employees encounter a yellow brick road reminiscent of “The Wizard of Oz”, chocolate chip adorned entrances to the chocolate factory, and a mischievous feline peeking through a window guarded by life-sized playing cards.

During Epic’s recent annual Users Group Meeting, themed “storytime”, attendees witnessed CEO Judy Faulkner, an 81-year-old mathematician who founded the company in 1979, grace the stage adorned as a swan. Emphasizing the significant cost savings of building in Verona rather than tech hubs like San Francisco, Faulkner highlighted the company’s unique approach to growth and sustainability in the industry.

Dismissing the conventional route of acquisitions or public offerings, Epic has carved its path guided by a set of principles that stray from typical corporate strategies.

While conventional wisdom may suggest a different trajectory, Epic’s steadfast commitment to independence and innovation continues to defy expectations. Despite the allure of public markets, Faulkner’s resolve to maintain the company’s autonomy remains unshaken.

Immersed in a world of creativity and inspiration, Epic’s campus boasts 28 uniquely themed office buildings designed to foster collaboration and ingenuity among its workforce.

From the Prairie Campus to the Storybook Campus, every building is a testament to the company’s dedication to creating a conducive environment for productivity and creativity.

Beyond the fantastical facade lies a company dedicated to addressing real-world challenges in the healthcare sector. Epic’s pursuit of interoperability and data exchange seeks to streamline information sharing and enhance patient care across the industry.

Despite criticisms and challenges, Epic remains at the forefront of healthcare technology, continuously developing cutting-edge solutions to meet evolving industry demands.