37signals LLC, originally founded in 1999 as a web design firm in Chicago, transitioned into software development following the launch of its first product, Basecamp, in 2004. Basecamp began as an internal tool before becoming a successful SaaS project management platform. The team spun out several tools—including Campfire, Highrise, Backpack, and more—but by 2014, the company rebranded as Basecamp and refocused its efforts exclusively on that flagship product. In 2022, citing renewed expansion into email and other ventures, it reverted to its original name, 37signals, while continuing development of both Basecamp and HEY, its premium email service.

Committed to a self-funded, sustainable model, 37signals is known for its minimalist design philosophy and deliberate simplicity—exemplified by the creation of the Ruby on Rails framework in 2004. The company operates with a compact and globally distributed team, and emphasizes thoughtful development processes like its “Shape Up” methodology and regular cooldown periods between cycles. Its approach and leadership, including co-founders Jason Fried and David Heinemeier Hansson, have influenced widely adopted practices in product development and remote work culture.