Shape Up method explained

In this episode of The Product Handbook, we unpack Shape Up, the product development methodology created by Basecamp that challenges traditional agile models and replaces backlogs with bets.

We’ll break it down in a way that’s easy to remember and apply — using mental models and mnemonics to help you retain:

• The shaping phase: where senior folks define the problem, appetite (time budget), and rough solution

• The betting table: how projects get greenlit for a focused 6-week cycle

• The concept of fixed time, variable scope — and how it helps teams ship without burnout or scope creep

We’ll also cover the strengths and common criticisms of Shape Up, including the need for highly skilled teams and how it handles (or doesn’t handle) long-term initiatives or support work.

If you’ve ever felt like your roadmap is a never-ending to-do list, this episode might just reshape your thinking.