Is the development part of the company where you work considered as a cost for the company or as an investment in the future health of the company?
I think this is a highly relevant question to ask since it will have a significant impact on how you are treated and the kind of work that will be expected of you.
Let’s look closer at the differences in the culture of a “R&D cost company” vs. a “R&D is our investment in the future company”.