Our Method: Shape Up
We don't do endless sprints. We shape the work, bet on it, and build it in focused cycles.
Why Shape Up?
Shape Up is a product development methodology created by Basecamp. It replaces the endless backlog and two-week sprints of Scrum with meaningful, time-boxed cycles that deliver real value.
The Four Phases
Shaping
We define the problem, set the appetite (how much time it's worth), and outline the solution at the right level of abstraction. No wireframes — just shaped pitches.
Betting
We review shaped work and decide what to build next. Only shaped, de-risked projects get the green light. No backlog — if it matters, it'll come back.
Building
Small teams work autonomously to build and ship. No daily standups or micromanagement. Teams integrate design and programming from day one.
Cooldown
Time to fix bugs, explore new ideas, and plan the next cycle. No rushing from one project to the next.
Shape Up vs. Traditional Agile
Shape Up
- Fixed time, variable scope
- Shaped pitches, not user stories
- 6-week cycles with cooldown
- No backlog — shaped work only
- Autonomous teams
Traditional Agile/Scrum
- —Fixed scope, variable time
- —User stories and story points
- —2-week sprints, no breaks
- —Ever-growing backlog
- —Daily standups and ceremonies
What This Means for You
Predictable delivery
Every cycle has a hard deadline. You know exactly when to expect working software.
No wasted work
We only build what's been shaped and de-risked. No building features nobody asked for.
Real progress, not busy work
Each cycle delivers meaningful, shippable work — not incremental story points.
Transparency
You see hill charts showing real progress, not just tickets moving across a board.