In this chat, Jorge Manrubia, Principal Programmer at 37signals, shares insights on the vital role of blogging in tech. He discusses the origins of the 37signals developer blog, highlighting its collaborative spirit and inclusive writing process. Jorge explores the benefits of sharing code and how transparency can enhance brand engagement. He emphasizes the importance of diverse voices in company communications and explains the evergreen impact of blogging in marketing, showcasing its ability to connect with audiences across platforms.
The 37signals developers blog thrives on a relaxed submission process that encourages authentic contributions and personal engagement from all employees.
Blogging serves as a powerful communication tool that fosters community trust and enhances the company's visibility and brand among technologists.
Deep dives
The Origins of the Developer's Blog
The developer's blog at 37 Signals was born out of a collective desire among technical staff to share insights and knowledge about their work. After the company closed its previous blog, Signals Versus Noise, the team recognized the need for a platform where programmers, designers, and system administrators could express their thoughts. With support from co-founders Jason Fried and David Heinemeier Hansson, the new initiative allowed team members to write freely on technical subjects that mattered to them. This grassroots approach fosters a culture of sharing and collaboration within the company, emphasizing that every contributor's voice is valued.
An Open and Authentic Writing Process
The submission process for the developer's blog at 37 Signals is notably relaxed and encourages personal engagement. Any employee can contribute an article without the constraints of an editorial process or publishing cadence, fostering a sense of ownership over content. Writers are encouraged to share meaningful experiences, lessons, or technical insights that resonate with them personally, rather than following generic or SEO-driven topics. This emphasis on authentic content ensures that the blog maintains its quality and relevance, avoiding superficial, formulaic posts.
The Benefits of Sharing Knowledge
Writing for the developer's blog provides significant personal and professional benefits for contributors like Jorge Manrubia. Engaging in the writing process not only helps clarify complex ideas but also facilitates meaningful interactions with a broader audience of software developers and technologists. By sharing real code and addressing authentic challenges, employees can build trust and connect with the community, which in return fosters a supportive dialogue. This openness not only enhances the company's visibility but also strengthens its brand, as prospective customers and partners gain insights into the company's inner workings and culture.
Does blogging still matter in tech? In this episode of The REWORK Podcast, host Kimberly Rhodes chats with 37signals' Principal Programmer Jorge Manrubia about why blogging is very much alive. They dig into the history of the 37signals developers blog, the company's process for contributions, and the added benefits this communication tool provides.
Key Takeaways:
00:50 – Meet Jorge
01:03 – The history of the 37signals developers blog
02:25 – The process — who contributes and how topics are decided
05:09 – Benefits of writing on the blog and sharing content with the public
07:40 – What to consider when starting a company blog
09:43 – Sharing code isn’t as revealing as you might think
11:28 – Secondary benefits of sharing your content