The (Social) Distance

Key takeaways

The COVID-19 pandemic has forced companies to reevaluate and adapt their operations quickly, prioritizing health and safety.
For remote-first organizations like Basecamp, transitioning to work-from-home was smoother, but communication and content production still present challenges.
Virtual events and online communication tools are essential for maintaining company culture and stakeholder engagement during physical distancing.
Flexibility and understanding are crucial—whether canceling meetups or rescheduling conference talks—to navigate the uncertainties of a global health crisis.
Emphasizing hygiene and behavioral changes, even for those working remotely, is critical to reducing the spread of the virus.

Summary

Impact of COVID-19 on Business Operations and Planning

The hosts discuss how the COVID-19 pandemic has affected their company, a remote-first organization. They highlight that their operations have remained relatively unchanged compared to other businesses, emphasizing their already-remote setup. A significant focus is on the cancellation of their upcoming April meetup in Chicago, which was a long-standing tradition. They explain the decision-making process, prioritizing safety and public health, and note that they are opting for virtual activities like online talks and recognition awards. Additionally, the cancellation of travel and conferences is discussed, reflecting a broader effort to minimize risk and comply with health guidelines.

Transition to Remote Work and Podcast Production Challenges

The hosts describe how the pandemic has led to their need to adapt their work and communication methods, especially with the office closed and team members working from home. They mention that this situation is prompting a hiatus in their podcast recording, as they lack home studio setups. They plan to use this downtime to establish remote recording capabilities and continue producing content remotely, acknowledging that some quality might decline but emphasizing the importance of adaptability and persistence during uncertain times.

Cultural and Personal Reflections Amid Pandemic

Throughout the episode, there are reflections on how the pandemic influences daily routines, social interactions, and company culture. The hosts touch on the emotional and practical aspects of practicing good hygiene, such as wiping down equipment and avoiding touching their faces, symbolizing the broader behavioral changes required during the health crisis. They also acknowledge the disappointment of canceling traditional gatherings and the uncertain timeline for resuming normal activities, emphasizing patience, safety, and community support.

Show notes

Basecamp is a remote company, so we're less disrupted by the current pandemic than many other businesses, but we're still taking steps to keep folks safe. Jason Fried talks about canceling the company's April meetup and closing the Chicago office. Rework will be taking a few weeks off so we can get set up with recording studios at home. In the meantime, if you're working from home for the first time, we'd love to hear your stories! Please get in touch at hello@rework.fm (you can write an email or send us a voice memo) or leave us a voicemail at 708-628-7850.

Show Notes

Tearing the heart out of Saturday night - 00:06

Joe Bob Briggs' series, The Last Drive-In - 0:14

Joe Bob Briggs: How Rednecks Saved Hollywood - 00:27

Our recent episode about leaving the Chicago office - 1:10

RailsConf - 5:59

The Distance - 8:57

Wailin learned about fomites from this 2013 New Yorker article and now she won't stop talking about them - 10:46