Jason Fried
Co-founder of 37 Signals
in mac
Who are you, and what do you do?
Jason Fried, one of the original founders of 37signals. I started the business back in 1999 with two other partners. We started as a web design firm, but now build web-based software.
I do a little bit of everything except programming and sys admin. I design, I write, I talk to customers, I think about the vision stuff, I come up with new product ideas and ways to improve our current products. These days I think of myself as an editor most of the time - reviewing, revising, tweaking, and polishing up what we're doing before it goes out the door.
What hardware do you use?
MacBook Pro, anti-glare high-rez screen w/ a 15" monitor. SSD drive to make it fastest. I also use an iPad for drafting design ideas. I also use thick sharpie markers and big pieces of paper to sketch ideas.
I used to use a 30" cinema display with my MacBook Pro, but a couple weeks ago I got rid of it. Now I just use the laptop screen. One screen all the time. I also like the smaller screen because it forces me to make better use of the space. I found myself getting mess on a 30".
You'll also find a Fuji ScanSnap on my desk and a paper shredder under my desk.
Shure SE530s keeps everyone out of my head and an Aeron chair to keep my body comfortable.
And what software?
Mostly: Basecamp, Highrise, Campfire, Backpack, Writeboard, Ta-da List, TextMate, Dropbox, Git, Safari/Firefox/Chrome, Propane, Terminal, Instapaper, Photoshop, Mail, Divvy, MobileMe, Transmit, Logbook (desktop client for the Backpack journal), Airfoil, iTunes, Keynote, 1Password, Pulsar (desktop client for Sirius radio).
What would be your dream setup?
I have it. One powerful, portable, fast, machine with a high-rez screen and a clean desktop. I don't really believe in dreams when it comes to hardware. These are the tools you use to do your job - you should have the best you can afford. Luckily, we're in the computer business, not the Formula One business. The best computers are affordable, all things considered.
Uses This is supported by ZSA, makers of the Moonlander, ErgoDox EZ and Planck EZ keyboards. They also publish an awesome newsletter.