In the podcast, REWORK host Kimberly Rhodes talks with 37signals co-founders, Jason Fried and David Heinemeier Hansson, about their journey spinning off products. They stress the value of keeping contracts simple and how once the handover is done, it's best to take a hands-off approach and let the new team run things. They share their experiences with boards and underline the need for trust and flexibility. Key Takeaways:00:43 - The steps they took to transition "Know Your Company" into its own independent entity.04:49 - Contracts don't offer as much protection as people believe.10:58 - The differences in spinning off a startup vs. a long-established company.14:53 - Letting capable partners take the reins and run the show independently.18:51 - The challenge in finding the right partner for a spin-off business.20:12 - In any transaction, things may not turn out as expected, but it may be worth taking calculated risks.23:19 - Contracts don't necessarily prevent disputes and can sometimes escalate them unnecessarily.Links and Resources:Canopy, formerly known as Know Your Company‘Know Your Company’ Deal StructureBooks by 37signalsSign up for a 30-day free trial at Basecamp.comHEY World | HEYThe REWORK podcastThe Rework Podcast on YouTubeThe 37signals Dev Blog37signals on YouTube@37signals on X

"Consensus is cozy, but broad agreement is not our aim. The right decision is. Which is why we take the time to think, debate, persuade, listen and reconsider and then, someone, decides. If you disagree, that’s fine, but once the decision is made, it’s time to commit and support it completely."Tune in as Kimberly leads a chat with Jason Fried and David Heinemeier Hansson, co-founders of 37signals, about the concept of Disagree and Commit. Once a decision is made, everyone should be in 100% — no looking back.Key Takeaways:01:01 - Breaking down how Disagree and Commit operates02:17 - Identifying the most suitable person to make the final decision based on the circumstance07:40 - Embracing the "manager of one" concept, empowering individuals to decide independently with reasonable supervision09:33 - Acknowledging that delegating decisions doesn't compromise the emphasis on quality14:04 - Always keeping the door open to revisit and tweak things15:44 - Granting capable individuals the freedom to make mistakes, alongside providing guidance for improvement20:35 - Viewing hiring not just as an evaluation of current abilities but also considering potential growth opportunities.Links and Resources:Jeff Bezos 2016 Letter to Amazon ShareholdersThere’s No Speed Limit by Derek Sivers –  https://sive.rs/kimo Books by 37signalsSign up for a 30-day free trial at Basecamp.comHEY World | HEYThe REWORK podcastThe Rework Podcast on YouTubeThe 37signals Dev Blog37signals on YouTube

Jason Fried and David Heinemeier Hansson, the co-founders of 37signals, dive into their book REWORK and discuss the essay “Strangers at a Cocktail Party” with Rework host, Kimberly Rhodes. From their experience, hiring too many people at once can throw off the balance and continuity of a company's culture. They talk about the importance of gradual assimilation and how culture is implicit, not always written down. They share insights on the value of fresh perspectives and the excitement of facing challenges head-on.Key Takeaways:00:30 - Gradually integrating new hires is important for upholding an organization's established norms and values.02:30 - Company culture is nurtured through the daily interactions and collective experiences shared within an organization.05:34 - New hires inject new perspectives and innovative ideas into the mix.07:14 - Embracing crises and novel challenges is part of the excitement of running a business.12:19 - Reflecting on the hiring patterns at 37signals.14:23 - While change is essential for adjusting the company's culture and strategy, it's vital to implement it carefully and minimize disruptions.Links and Resources:The Half-Life of Facts by Samuel ArbesmanAll About Atlas - Boston Dynamics RobotBooks by 37signalsSign up for a 30-day free trial at Basecamp.comHEY World | HEYThe REWORK podcastThe Rework Podcast on YouTubeThe 37signals Dev Blog37signals on YouTube@37signals on X

This episode of REWORK delves into an essay from the book "It Doesn't Have To Be Crazy At Work," co-authored by Jason Fried and David Heinemeier Hansson, advocating for the use of asynchronous communication for work projects. During the discussion, they explore the downside of chat and suggest it be reserved for informal discussions and social interactions.Key Takeaways:00:36 - Different communication methods in the workplace – chat vs. asynchronous 02:22 - The benefits of centralized communication for project management and how chat can hinder productivity09:20 - Managing multiple conversations for a single project11:28 - How project management tools reduce the need for frequent meetings, check-ins, and follow-ups20:05 - Data retention practices for both formal and informal communicationLinks and Resources:Once. com – https://once.com/Campfire – https://once.com/campfireBooks by 37signals – https://37signals.com/booksSign up for a 30-day free trial at Basecamp.comHEY – https://www.hey.com/The REWORK podcast – https://37signals.com/podcast/Rework is a production of 37signals. You can find show notes and transcripts on our website. Full video episodes are available on YouTube and X.If you have a question for Jason or David about a better way to work and run your business, leave us a voicemail at 708-628-7850 or email, and we might answer it on a future episode.

In this episode of REWORK, host Kimberly Rhodes sits down with the co-founders of 37signals, Jason Fried and David Heinemeier Hansson, to provide an update on their latest product — Campfire, under the Once umbrella — just about one month after its initial launch. Once introduces a new software paradigm where users pay just once and own it forever, departing from the conventional subscription model. The discussion delves into their pricing strategy, their emphasis on long-term profitability over immediate gains, and offers insights into what lies ahead for Once.Key Takeaways:00:32 - Initial Reflections: Once, 30 Days In 02:03 - Setting Benchmarks: Unveiling Novel Concepts for Long-Term Success 09:58 - Embracing the Journey: Finding Joy in the Process 13:39 - Looking Forward: The Future Trajectory of Once 15:53 - Taking Risks: Navigating the Gambles of Product Launches 23:24 - Pricing Puzzles: Deciphering the Right ValueLinks and Resources:Once. com and CampfireBooks by 37signalsSign up for a 30-day free trial at Basecamp.com HEY.comThe REWORK podcastThe Rework Podcast on YouTubeThe 37signals Dev Blog37signals on YouTube@37signals on X

37signals is hiring! However, the traditional resume and formal education credentials don’t rank as high as you might think in their hiring process.In this episode of The Rework Podcast, host Kimberly Rhodes chats with co-founders of 37signals, Jason Fried and David Heinemeier Hansson about reviewing potential job candidates. You’ll hear them discuss why a personalized cover letter can tell a lot more about a potential hire than chronological work history, and why AI isn’t always a dependable author for those details.Key Takeaways:00:45 - Resumes are basically piles of lies02:27 - Cover letters should explain why you want the job05:07 - Test driving final candidates11:05 - Jason and David’s involvement in the hiring process18:59 - Finding employees that are the right cultural fitRework is a production of 37signals. You can find show notes and transcripts on our website. Full video episodes are available on YouTube and X.If you have a question for Jason or David about a better way to work and run your business, leave us a voicemail at 708-628-7850 or email rework@37signals.com, and we might answer it on a future episode. Links and Resources:Books by 37signalsSign up for a 30-day free trial at Basecamp.comHEY World | HEY The REWORK podcastThe Rework Podcast on YouTubeThe 37signals Dev Blog37signals on YouTube@37signals on X

David Heinemeier Hansson recently revealed that he's making the switch from Apple to Android and trading in his Mac for a PC. In this week's episode, cofounders of 37signals Jason Fried and David Heinemeier Hansson discuss the shift in direction, the events that led to the change of platform, and what the company was missing by being focused on the Apple ecosystem. Rework is a production of 37signals. You can find show notes and transcripts on our website. Full video episodes are available on YouTube and X.If you have a question for Jason or David about a better way to work and run your business, leave us a voicemail at 708-628-7850 or email, and we might answer it on a future episode. Links and Resources:From the Apple Newsroom: The App Store, Spotify, and Europe's Thriving Digital Music MarketBooks by 37signalsSign up for a 30-day free trial at Basecamp.comHEY World | HEY The REWORK podcastThe Rework Podcast on YouTubeThe 37signals Dev Blog37signals on YouTube@37signals on X

Kimberly is switching things up this week and taking a more casual approach with the co-founders of 37signals, Jason Fried and David Heinemeier Hansson, asking them a series of rapid fire questions. Jason, for example, reveals the book that granted them permission to forge their unique path, while David shares the profound advice from Jeff Bezos about investing in things that don't change. The two of them also open up about their business journey, the meaning behind their work, and even hint toward upcoming projects. Get ready for a candid and insightful peek into the minds of Jason and David.Check out the full video episode on YouTubeKey Takeaways: [0:27] - How Ricardo Semler's Maverick empowered Jason[0:53] - David also credits Blue Ocean Strategy[1:25] - Best piece of advice?[4:39] - Productive habits?[6:20] - Most meaningful part of David’s and Jason’s jobs?[9:32] - Discussing inspirations like nature and architecture[11:02] - First principles, tech exploration, and aesthetics inspire David.[13:16] - David is embarking on a grand adventure fueled by unresolved anger.Rework is a production of 37signals. You can find show notes and transcripts on our website. Full video episodes are available on YouTube and X.If you have a question for Jason or David about a better way to work and run your business, leave us a voicemail at 708-628-7850 or email, and we might answer it on a future episode. Links and Resources:MaverickBlue Ocean StrategyBooks by 37signalsSign up for a 30-day free trial at Basecamp.comHE

Kimberly sits down with Jason Fried and David Heinemeier Hansson to discuss a chapter from REWORK titled “Press Releases Are Spam,” explaining why traditional press releases don't work well for their product launches. The conversation touches on the shift from formal press releases to direct-to-consumer approaches in today’s media scene. They touch upon the importance of hearing from authentic voices with skin in the game rather than relying on formulaic press releases. The founders also share insights on their personal involvement in marketing and the ups and downs of being engaged in the social media attention game.Check out the full video episode on YouTubeKey Takeaways: [0:40] - Press releases haven’t worked for 37signals[6:59] - Awkward CEO making direct-to-consumer work sets a significant trend[9:05] - Press releases signal desperation; personal connections more effective[14:17] - Authenticity trumps marketing.[20:24] - Don't delegate your voice; maintain direct communication[25:52] - Balancing the trade-offs of social media[27:15] - Discussing navigating the intensity of attention cultureRework is a production of 37signals. You can find show notes and transcripts on our website. Full video episodes are available on YouTube and X.If you have a question for Jason or David about a better way to work and run your business, leave us a voicemail at 708-628-7850 or email, and we might answer it on a future episode. Links and Resources:Books by 37signalsSign up for a 30-day free trial at Basecamp.comHEY World | HEY The REWORK podcastThe Rework Podcast on YouTubeThe 37signals Dev Blog37signals on YouTube@37signals on X 37signals on LinkedIn

Join host Kimberly in this episode for a candid chat with Jason Fried and David Heinemeier Hansson. Diving into a recent social media controversy, they discuss the decision-making process and lessons learned. The conversation covers the challenges of public communication, navigating social media, and the importance of thinking before reacting. Gain valuable insights into managing public image, handling controversies, and balancing authenticity with professionalism. The co-founders share personal experiences, encouraging a more thoughtful approach to online interactions and providing behind-the-scenes insights into successful business communication practices.Check out the full video episode on YouTubeKey Takeaways: [0:25] - Discussing recent social media controversy[5:47] - Importance of debating ideas rather than attacking individuals[7:47] - The complexity of media representation[9:22] - Patience and perspective in online discourse[15:21] - Occasional regrets are part of pushing boundaries.[19:44] - The complexity of tradeoffsRework is a production of 37signals. You can find show notes and transcripts on our website. Full video episodes are available on YouTube and X.If you have a question for Jason or David about a better way to work and run your business, leave us a voicemail at 708-628-7850 or email, and we might answer it on a future episode. Links and Resources:Books by 37signalsSign up for a 30-day free trial at Basecamp.comHEY World | HEY The REWORK podcastThe Rework Podcast on YouTubeThe 37signals Dev Blog37signals on YouTube@37signals on X 37signals on LinkedIn

This week, join your host Kimberly Rhodes along with the co-founders of 37signals, Jason Fried and David Heinemeier Hansson, as they celebrate Basecamp's 20th and 37signals' upcoming 25th anniversaries. The excitement extends to the success of their book REWORK, which recently surpassed a million copies sold worldwide.They delve especially into the chapter titled "The Myth of the Overnight Sensation," exploring the book's journey, impact, and the challenges faced during its creation. From unexpected compromises with publishers to the book's timeless nature, Jason and David share insights on treating a book as a product and how it has aged well, continuing to resonate with readers around the globe.Jason and David also reflect on the writing process and the book's unique qualities, including its concise nature and impactful content. Tune in for a fascinating exploration of the past, present, and potential future of 37signals’ writing about work and business.Check out the full video episode on YouTubeKey Takeaways: [00:39] - Big news: REWORK just surpassed a million worldwide copies sold![02:13] - The book was definitely not an overnight success.[04:12] - How treating books as products enhances impact, and longevity.[05:29] - The book, initially 50,000 words, was cut in half to 25,000, which caused a conflict.[07:06] - Hear about the compromise that was made.[10:25] - The book's brevity, initially concerning, impressed the editor, leading to improvements.[13:58] - How the book serves as a persuasive tool, empowering readers to articulate their thoughts.[15:52] - David points out that the book's immediate start contributed to its success.[18:24] - Writing a book is overrated; instead focus on consistent online writing.[20:06] - REWORK’s success lies in compiling proven internet hits for lasting impact.[24:39] - Any plans for another book?Rework is a production of 37signals. You can find show notes and transcripts on our website. Full video episodes are available on YouTube and X.If you have a question for Jason or David about a better way to work and run your business, leave us a voicemail at 708-628-7850 or email, and we might answer it on a future episode. Links and Resources:Books by 37signalsSign up for a 30-day free trial at Basecamp.comHEY World | HEY The REWORK podcastThe Rework Podcast on YouTubeThe 37signals Dev Blog37signals on YouTube@37signals on X 37signals on LinkedIn

Chances are, you've heard Jason Fried and David Heinemeier Hansson stress the vital role of trusting your instincts in business.This week, host Kimberly Rhodes takes a deeper dive into the heart of human decision-making with the co-founders of 37signals—exploring how the interplay of intuition and accumulated experiences becomes your compass for navigating the complex landscape of business decisions.Join Jason and David as they unravel the intricate dance between data-driven decisions and the art of making judgment calls, guiding listeners through trusting your gut and breaking free from external pressures when making product and pricing decisions.Listen in to discover how the power of experimentation and the 'try it and see' approach often unveil valuable insights, with reality as the ultimate judge.Check out the full video episode on YouTubeKey Takeaways: [00:28] - The limitations of data-driven decisions [03:00] - The magic of intuition and the black-box nature of gut decisions[04:53] - The role of market feedback in evaluating the effectiveness of decisions[06:39] - Cutting through the noise in decision making[09:00] - Experience and judgment in decision making[11:39] - Testing pricing and the importance of experimentation[15:45] - The crucial role of gut feelings[17:51] - Accepting uncertainty and avoiding perfectionism[21:10] - Utilizing momentum and adopting a 'try it and see' approachRework is a production of 37signals. You can find show notes and transcripts on our website. Full video episodes are available on YouTube and X.If you have a question for Jason or David about a better way to work and run your business, leave us a voicemail at 708-628-7850 or email, and we might answer it on a future episode. Links and Resources:From Jason's HEY World: It’s all a judgment call Books by 37signalsSign up for a 30-day free trial at Basecamp.comHEY World | HEY The REWORK podcastThe Rework Podcast on YouTubeThe 37signals Dev Blog37signals on YouTube@37signals on X 37signals on LinkedIn

Product launches can be a delicate dance between anticipation and anxiety.Today on "Rework", Jason Fried and David Heinemeier Hansson sit down with host Kimberly Rhodes to explore the intricacies of knowing when a product is ready for launch. Listen in to learn the art of patience with the "Give It Five Minutes" principle and the necessity of building a "bucket of arrogance" to weather feedback storms during challenging launch phases. Don’t miss out on Jason and David's unparalleled insights as they delve into nuances involved in bringing a new product to the market.Check out the full video episode on YouTubeKey Takeaways: Launching with impact—assessing quality, avoiding embarrassment, and infusing novelty are key elements in launching a memorable product to the market.By embracing a "swarm" approach, the team addresses and rectifies issues promptly during the initial launch ensuring a smoother user experience."You can't design on people's requests. You have to design on their behalf"—how using a selective approach to customer feedback allows for more thoughtful and user-centric product development.Rejecting the concept of roadmaps, in favor of flexible product evolution."Give it Five Minutes": why acknowledging the temporal unreliability of early feedback, especially during a launch, is crucial.How building a “bucket of arrogance” helps with weathering feedback storms. How prioritizing qualitative feedback over quantitative metrics during a product launch helps to address issues without compromising the product's integrity.Rework is a production of 37signals. You can find show notes and transcripts on our website. Full video episodes are available on YouTube and X.If you have a question for Jason or David about a better way to work and run your business, leave us a voicemail at 708-628-7850 or email, and we might answer it on a future episode. Links and Resources:Give it Five Minutes From Jason's HEY World: Live with it for a while Software Has Bugs | REWORK This again, Apple? | REWORK Books by 37signalsSign up for a 30-day free trial at Basecamp.comHEY World | HEY The REWORK podcastThe Rework Podcast on YouTubeThe 37signals Dev Blog37signals on YouTube@37signals on X 37signals on LinkedIn

In this special YouTube live episode, co-founders of 37signals, Jason Fried and David Heinemeier Hansson, join host Kimberly Rhodes to field live questions from listeners.Listen in as Jason and David answer questions about topics such as the recent launch of the HEY Calendar. They also share updates on the release of Campfire, the first ONCE product, with behind-the-scenes details about this simplified and affordable chat tool. Plus, tune in for insights into the evolution of the Shape Up methodology, learning from customer feedback post-launch, and the Founders' thoughts on the exciting but uncertain future of AI in the ever-evolving landscape of technology.Check out the LIVE video episode on YouTubeKey Takeaways: Highlights from the HEY Calendar launch. Updates on the ONCE line of products from 37signals and the economics and philosophy behind fixed-price software products.Campfire's role as a simplified, affordable, and privacy-focused group chat tool.The importance of engaging with customer feedback after product launches.An overview of the evolution of the Shape Up methodology, its application in new product development, and adaptations for different team sizes.AI—excitement, caution, and its potential impact on the technology landscape.Rework is a production of 37signals. You can find show notes and transcripts on our website. Full video episodes are available on YouTube and X.If you have a question for Jason or David about a better way to work and run your business, simply email us, leave a voicemail, or text us at 708-628-7850. Your question might just get featured in a future episode!Links and Resources:This Again, Apple? – REWORK podcast From David's HEY World: We’ve resubmitted the HEY Calendar app to AppleHEY CalendarONCE 37signals Introduces Once | REWORKA Casual Walkthrough Tour of Campfire  Shape Up — Stop Running in Circles and Ship Work that Matters Shape Up Principle: The Betting Table | REWORKShape Up Principle: Decide When to Stop | REWORK Books by 37signalsSign up for a 30-day free trial at Basecamp.comHEY World | HEY The REWORK podcastThe Rework Podcast on YouTubeThe 37signals Dev Blog" rel="nofollow">

In this episode of Rework, the spotlight is on listener questions. Listen in as Jason Fried and David Heinemeier Hansson share their insights on a range of topics — from 37signals' approach to user testing and the impact of Stoic philosophy on their business principles, to discussions on profits and expenses, and the crucial decision of when to hire. Tune in to hear their unique perspectives on these key aspects of building a successful company.Check out the full video episode on YouTubeKey Takeaways: Uncover why 37signals rejects traditional user testing and prioritizes being their own first customer. They unveil their unique perspective on product development and share the one question you need to test every product against.Explore how Stoicism functions as a mental operating system, fostering calm and efficient thinking in response to business challenges. David delves into Stoic principles and recommends some essential Stoic readings for entrepreneurs (See links below).Jason and David discuss their approach to profits, expenses, maintaining healthy margins, and the independence and freedom that profitability affords in decision-making.How to use the principle of "hire when it hurts" to ensure resources align with the business's growth and increased demand.Rework is a production of 37signals. You can find show notes and transcripts on our website. Full video episodes are available on YouTube and X.If you have a question for Jason or David about a better way to work and run your business, leave us a voicemail, or send us a text at 708-628-7850 or email, and we might answer it in a future episode. Links and Resources:The Manual by Epictetus On the Shortness of Life by SenecaA Guide to the Good Life: The Ancient Art of Stoic Joy by William B. Irvine Basecamp Automatic Check-ins Books by 37signalsSign up for a 30-day free trial at Basecamp.comHEY World | HEY The REWORK podcastThe Rework Podcast on YouTubeThe 37signals Dev Blog37signals on YouTube@37signals on X 37signals on LinkedIn

Getting an app into Apple's app store without giving up 30% of profits is something the team at 37signals battled back in 2020 when it launched the HEY email service. What they didn't expect would be to have some of the same challenges in 2024 with the HEY Calendar app.Listen in as David Heinemeier Hansson shares the history of the 2020 challenge along with the most recent app store rejections — and the last minute update the team made to the app to get the final approval.Rework is a production of 37signals. You can find show notes and transcripts on our website. Full video episodes are available on YouTube and X.If you have a question for Jason or David about a better way to work and run your business, leave us a voicemail at 708-628-7850 or email, and we might answer it on a future episode.

Today, we're diving into a question that has piqued the curiosity of many of our listeners and clients: How exactly does 37signals keep track of all the moving pieces in a fully remote company with team members spread throughout the world?The answer lies in our use of Automatic Check-ins, a tool embedded in Basecamp 3.0 that has revolutionized how we stay connected with what everyone is working on. But how do these Automatic Check-ins work, and why are they so essential to the pulse of our remote work culture?In this episode of Rework, Jason Fried and David Heinemeier Hansson join host Kimberly Rhodes to unveil the game-changing secrets behind 37signals' efficient work tracking system.Listen in as Jason and David explore the harmony between Automatic Check-ins and remote work, contrasting it with the cumbersome nature of traditional status meetings. Plus, discover the tool's impact on transparency, productivity, and the unique ways it fosters organic interactions within the team.Check out the full video episode on YouTubeKey Takeaways: Uncover how Automatic Check-ins help liberate 37signals from the confines of traditional status meetings, providing a flexible and efficient way to share work updates.Explore the seamless compatibility between automatic check-ins and remote work, allowing individuals to respond on their terms.Delve into the unexpected motivation behind summarizing work, encouraging individuals to reflect meaningfully on their accomplishments.Learn how the Automatic Check-ins tool's ability to link to other projects enhances collaboration, offering a quick overview of individual contributions.Understand the practical leadership value of employing automatic check-ins, setting expectations for the team, and emphasizing the importance of regular communication.Rework is a production of 37signals. You can find show notes and transcripts on our website. Full video episodes are available on YouTube and X.If you have a question for Jason or David about a better way to work and run your business, leave us a voicemail at 708-628-7850 or email, and we might answer it on a future episode. Links and Resources:Basecamp Automatic Check-ins Books by 37signalsSign up for a 30-day free trial at Basecamp.comHEY World | HEY The REWORK podcastThe Rework Podcast on YouTubeThe 37signals Dev Blog37signals on YouTube@37signals on X 37signals on LinkedIn

In this week's episode of Rework, host Kimberly Rhodes sits down with Jason Fried and David Heinemeier Hansson to share the essential elements that foster a thriving partnership.Witness firsthand the enduring stability of their collaboration as Jason and David explore how explicit power-sharing agreements and trust enable each partner to take the lead in their own domain.Tune in for a vibrant behind-the-scenes look at how mutual admiration and a shared commitment to vision and values has paved the way for Jason and David’s long standing partnership at 37signals.Check out the full video episode on YouTubeKey Takeaways: Jason and David share their origin story—from “Apple” pay to the pivotal transition into a partnership after the Basecamp launch.Mutual admiration, respect, and the other factors that contribute to a successful partnership that allow Jason and David to make decisions based on their vision and values.The explicit power-sharing agreements that allow each partner to take the lead in their domain—Jason spearheading design and David steering programming.The value of embracing distinct dispositions in idea generation and differences in decision-making.The importance of engaging in productive—sometimes intense—discussions about product features and ideas.How the enduring longevity and stability of their partnership helps Jason and David to consistently reach mutually beneficial decisions.Rework is a production of 37signals. You can find show notes and transcripts on our website. Full video episodes are available on YouTube and X.If you have a question for Jason or David about a better way to work and run your business, leave us a voicemail at 708-628-7850 or email, and we might answer it on a future episode. Links and Resources:Books by 37signalsSign up for a 30-day free trial at Basecamp.comHEY World | HEY The REWORK podcastThe Rework Podcast on YouTubeThe 37signals Dev Blog37signals on YouTube@37signals on X 37signals on LinkedIn

"If you're going to look back at all, you should glance back but not stare." – Jason FriedIn this episode of the Rework podcast, host, Kimberly Rhodes sits down with Jason Fried, and David Heinemeier Hansson, to dive into a compelling question: How much attention should businesses really give to the past?Jason introduced this concept in his recent HEY World post called "Look Back Less," where he urged businesses to redirect their gaze toward the future, steering clear of excessive retrospective analysis.Join Jason and David as they explore the limitations of retrospection, highlighting the power of personal stakes, gut instincts, and a readiness to take risks, all under the sway of the market's response. Listen in as Jason and David navigate the intricacies of this business philosophy, touching on recent Twitter and YouTube comments that both echo and challenge their perspectives. Tune in to discover why continuous forward movement may hold the key to sustained success. Check out the full video episode on YouTubeKey Takeaways: Judgment Calls vs. Data-Driven Decisions: challenge the conventional wisdom of relying solely on past analyses for predicting outcomes. Discover the power of founder-led decision-making, where personal stakes and a willingness to take risks fuel faster decisions and a culture of experimentation.Why the ability to admit mistakes is vital to maintaining agility and adaptability.Uncover the significance of gut instincts and unarticulated wisdom in decision-making.Explore the vital role of continuous forward movement in navigating the ever-evolving landscape of business.Rework is a production of 37signals. You can find show notes and transcripts on our website. Full video episodes are available on YouTube and X (formerly known as Twitter).If you have a question for Jason or David about a better way to work and run your business, leave us a voicemail at 708-628-7850 or email, and we might answer it on a future episode. Links and Resources:From Jason's HEY World: Look back less Books by 37signalsSign up for a 30-day free trial at Basecamp.comHEY World | HEY The REWORK podcastThe Rework Podcast on YouTubeThe 37signals Dev Blog37signals on YouTubeThe Rework Podcast on YouTube@37signals on X 37signals on LinkedIn

In their book, It Doesn’t Have to Be Crazy at Work, Jason Fried and David Heinemeier Hansson stress the importance of narrowing the scope as a project unfolds, emphasizing, "After the initial dust settles, the work required to finish a project should be dwindling over time, not expanding."But navigating this challenge is not always easy. In this week's episode of Rework, Kimberly Rhodes sits down with Jason and David to explore the challenges and benefits of narrowing focus, particularly in the context of developing a new product.Jason and David delve into the significance of clear deadlines, effective strategies for managing a constant influx of ideas, and the importance of adhering to the principle of "done is better than perfect" so you can ship. Check out the full video episode on YouTubeKey Takeaways: Why clear deadlines are crucial for honing, editing, and chiseling features to ensure a focused, timely delivery.How to avoid feature "pile-up" as a project progresses in order to prevent last-minute chaos and ensure a smoother path to completion.Start new product development with novel ideas to create a distinguishing factor for an audience seeking innovative solutions.Not every idea can be integrated without compromising a project's scope—be prepared to make decisions on what to include and what to postpone.Use the role of working memory to focus on what truly matters without being overwhelmed by an endless list of ideas.Resist the temptation to hoard ideas; instead, focus on a few key ideas that align with the project's goals. Done is better than perfect: small companies have the advantage of focusing on the perfect ratio between effort and value.Rework is a production of 37signals. You can find show notes and transcripts on our website. Full video episodes are available on YouTube and X (formerly known as Twitter).If you have a question for Jason or David about a better way to work and run your business, leave us a voicemail at 708-628-7850 or email, and we might answer it on a future episode. Links and Resources:It Doesn’t Have to Be Crazy at Work Books by 37signalsSign up for a 30-day free trial at Basecamp.comHEY World | HEY The REWORK podcastThe Rework Podcast on YouTubeThe 37signals Dev Blog37signals on YouTubeThe Rework Podcast on YouTube@37signals on X 37signals on LinkedIn