As an Engineer, the insights from the 37signals Rework book resonate deeply and seem quite obvious. Over the years similar ideas have being preached by myself and other Engineers, although the messages never seems to stick with management. 37signals, being a successful company, have published their own ideas so that they can stick. The book is an easy read and packed with insights in short story form. These are my favourites:
Workaholism (page 25)
Workaholics are not smart workers. They try to solve problems by throwing hours at them, which in turn creates more problems. There is a definite distinction between workaholics and working hard.
Build half a product, not a half-assed product (page 70)
So sacrifice some of your darlings for greater good. Cut your ambition in half. You’re better off with a kick ass half than a half assed whole.
This is similar to how Lean Startup practitioners advocate reducing waste.
Focus on what won’t change (page 85)
Rather then chasing the latest and greatest trends, focus on what won’t change: “The core of your business should be built around things that won’t change. Things that people are going to want today and ten years from now. Those are the things you should invest in.”
Don’t copy (page 135)
The original creator took a journey to produce what you’re attempting to copy. You don’t know why something looks the way it is. Skipping learning is limiting your ability to grow.
Out teach your competition (page 173)
Teach and you’ll form a bond you don’t get from traditional marketing tactics. Earning their loyalty by teaching them forms a whole different connection.
Emulate chefs (page 176)
Chef’s share everything they know by sharing their recipes. Great chefs know that recipes and techniques aren’t enough to beat him at his own game.
Sound like you (page 262)
Talk to customers the way you would to friends. Drop legalese: this email message is for the use of the intended recipient(s) and may contain confidential and privileged information
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