Clearing the decks for launch

With the launch of Basecamp 5 approaching, 37signals co-founders Jason Fried and David Heinemeier Hansson discuss what happens inside their company when it enters “launch mode.” They talk about temporarily shifting priorities, the difference between routine operations and launch periods, and why putting lower-priority tasks on hold is often necessary to make meaningful progress. Plus, Jason and David share their favorite aspects of the newest version of Basecamp.

Key Takeaways

• 00:00 – Introduction
• 00:10 – Pausing processes and the power of “not now”
• 03:41 – Moving quickly and deciding to just build it
• 08:38 – Pressing pause on routines to stay focused on the goal
• 11:20 – Staying flexible while working through the chaos
• 13:54 – What life after launch will look like
• 20:54 – Jason and David share their favorite Basecamp 5 updates

Links and Resources

• Record a video question for the podcast
• Watch The REWORK podcast on YouTube
• Basecamp is the no-nonsense project management system. Sign up for free at Basecamp.com
• HEY is a fresh take on email. Sign up for a 30-day free trial at HEY.com
• Fizzy is a modern spin on kanban. Sign up for free at fizzy.do
• Books by 37signals
• Jason Fried on X
• David Heinemeier Hansson on X