David Heinemeier Hansson

Quotes are word for word from the source.

• Optimism over fear

  “Choose to marvel at the accelerating milestones we've been hitting rather than tremble over the next.”

  Our noteHe encourages a positive outlook on rapid technological shifts instead of anxiety.

• Full stack philosophy

  “Rails has been unapologetically full stack since the beginning. We've continuously sought to include ever-more default answers to all the major infrastructure questions posed by modern web development.”

  Our noteDavid explains the core philosophy of Ruby on Rails as a comprehensive framework.

• Proven technology stack

  “If you can build a Gmail rival with this stack, and have it be met with broad applaud by tens of thousands of paying customers, you can probably build just about anything with it.”

  Our noteValidating the Hotwire approach through the success of the HEY email service.

• Scaling down scope

  “If you can't build your version one with three people, then you either need different people or need to slim down your initial version.”

  Our noteDHH suggests that failure to build with a small team indicates a scope or talent problem.

• Defusing customer anger

  “Customers appreciate directness and will often shift from angry to polite if you respond quickly and in a straight-shooting manner.”

  Our noteHow quick and honest communication changes customer behavior.

• Content Strategy

  “Start off by creating a blog that not only touts your product but offers helpful advice, tips, tricks, links, etc.”

  Our noteHe advises on how to structure a business blog to attract readers.

• Launch strategy

  “To build up buzz and anticipation, go with a Hollywood-style launch: 1) Teaser, 2) Preview, and 3) Launch.”

  Our noteThe three-stage framework for launching a new application effectively.

• Email lists

  “By the time we launch our apps, we have thousands of emails to ping which is a big help in gaining traction.”

  Our noteThe importance of building an email list before the actual launch day.

• Hire the better writer

  “If you are trying to decide between a few people to fill a position, always hire the better writer. It doesn't matter if that person is a designer, programmer, marketer, salesperson, or whatever, the writing skills will pay off.”

  Our noteDHH explains why writing skills are a universal indicator of talent across all roles.