37signals Introduces ONCE

In a world where subscriptions have become the norm for everything from streaming services to heated car seats, the team at 37signals recently unveiled a new venture that's poised to reintroduce the notion of software ownership with a pay-once model called ONCE. 

Today, Kimberly Rhodes sits down with Jason Fried and David Heinemeier Hansson, the co-founders of 37signals to introduce ONCE to listeners of the show. 

Listen in for a behind-the-scenes look at the driving principles, unique challenges, and potential impact of David and Jason's vision to offer simpler, more user-centric software, that they hope will transform the digital landscape and empower users worldwide. 

Check out the full video episode on YouTube

Show Notes: 

[00:00] - Kimberly opens the show, with the team introducing ONCE today on the show.  

[00:25] - Jason clarifies exactly what ONCE is.

[01:16] - Inundated with software subscriptions? Why 37signals is aiming to reintroduce software ownership with a pay-once model. 

[02:03] - The shift from software as a product to SaaS and why now is the time for an alternative. 

[02:58] - The distinction between product and service. 

[03:42] - When SaaS models just don’t fit (and when they lead to data ownership concerns). 

[04:56] - Basecamp in the White House? David shares the story.

[05:57] - How transitioning from a service to a product model will change the landscape. 

[07:08] - Jason shares that ONCE is an umbrella for future products and offers listeners insight into the future of Basecamp and HEY.

[09:18] -David shares the challenges of applying the ONCE idea to different software solutions. 

[11:38] - David shares the desire for a simpler and more straightforward user experience akin to turning on a TV. 

[13:22] - The need for a different software development approach, and why it will be a good time—even if it doesn't work. 

[14:51] - Kimberly inquires about the availability of the code. 

[15:42] - Jason highlights the transparency of the ONCE concept, sharing his hopes that it will serve as an educational tool for other product teams. 

[16:40] - David reflects on how newer products have lost their repairability, emphasizing the value of open source principles and the lasting legacy embodied by a product like ONCE.

[20:41] - The importance and value of transparency and open collaboration.

[21:47] - Kimberly raises questions about branding, the origin of the name ONCE, and the challenges of acquiring a short domain name.

[21:51] - Jason shares some of the optional names they tried out and the philosophy behind the name ONCE.

[22:40] - The process of acquiring premium domain names. Jason shares 37signals previous experiences and the behind-the-scenes of the recent negotiation to purchase ONCE.com.

[24:18] - A symbolic gesture of their commitment to the ONCE concept and a convenient home for their umbrella of products. 

[24:50] - The significance and cost of valuable domain acquisition and why David advises against doing it on your first venture.

[26:16] - Kimberly inquires about how they manage updates and product development across Basecamp, HEY, and the new umbrella product with their current team.

[27:06] - Jason shares their approach to allocating resources to manage multiple products. 

[28:28] - David recounts how Basecamp was developed, and 37signals ongoing commitment and dedication to both simplicity in product development and tools that empower single individuals to build entire products.

[30:09] - A calculated bet and the essential attitude needed for Founders when pursuing ambitious goals. 

[32:06] - For more information about ONCE click here. The REWORK podcast is a production of 37signals. You can find show notes and transcripts on our website. You can also find full video episodes on Twitter (also known as X) and YouTube. 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 send us an email. 

Links and Resources:

Introducing ONCE

Jason's LinkedIn Post About Once

Basecamp: It Doesn’t Have to Be Crazy at Work 

Books by 37signals

Sign up for a 30-day free trial at Basecamp.com

HEY World | HEY 

The REWORK podcast

The 37signals Dev Blog

37signals on YouTube

@37signals on Twitter 

37signals on LinkedIn