This session introduced the Hill Chart feature in Basecamp, explaining its purpose, setup, and practical applications.
Hill Charts provide a more nuanced way to track project status beyond traditional to-do lists, focusing on the difference between problem-solving and execution phases.
The presentation included setup instructions, usage tips, and examples from both 37signals and customer scenarios.
Action Items
(no action items were assigned or discussed in this meeting)
Introduction to Hill Charts
To-do lists don’t always accurately represent project progress, as some remaining tasks can be disproportionately complex.
37signals developed Hill Charts to provide a clearer, visual representation of task progress in Basecamp projects.
Projects are divided into two phases: the “uphill” (problem-solving, planning) and the “downhill” (execution after unknowns are resolved).
Hill Chart Functionality & Setup
Hill Charts let teams see, at a glance, what’s moving forward, what’s stuck, and what hasn’t been started.
Users can enable Hill Charts for new or existing to-do lists via the three-dot menu in Basecamp.
Multiple to-do lists can be tracked, and adjustments can be made at any time.
Each to-do list appears as a colored dot on the chart, visible from the project’s To-do tool page.
Updating & Tracking Progress
Dots on the Hill Chart are updated manually to encourage critical thinking about actual project status.
Users click “Update,” drag dots to new positions, and add notes or notify team members as needed.
The chart’s history and notes can be reviewed, and comments can be added for further discussion.
The Hill Chart shows progression over time, helping to identify stuck tasks or consistent progress.
Examples of Usage
Internally, 37signals tracks product updates with Hill Charts managed by both programmers and designers.
Customers use Hill Charts for event planning, construction, and interior design, among other applications.
Decisions
Manual updating of Hill Chart positions — chosen to require critical thinking rather than automate based solely on checked to-do items.
Open Questions / Follow-Ups
No open questions or pending follow-ups were raised. For further setup help, users are advised to contact [email protected].