Companies can learn from controversy that ensued over Basecamp’s ban of political discussion at work

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Whether you agree with Basecamp’s founders’ new rules or not, it’s clear unilateral action tends to backfire – something to remember as conversations about equity and inclusion in the office ramp up

No more lingering or dwelling on past decisionsThe most controversial item internally was the ban on political discussions, which was narrowed fairly quickly to commentary on the Basecamp project-management main account – staffers could still individually comment politically on their own account or elsewhere.Mr. Hansson explained it this way: “As cliché as it may sound, these are very difficult times in many places of the world, and in America in particular.

“My belief is that the key to working with other people of different ideological persuasions is to find common cause in the work, in the relations with customers, in the good we can do in the industry. Not to repeatedly seek out all the hard edges where we differ,” which can be left to smaller groups of willing participants, he wrote.

There are no easy answers here. And the issue, once raised, can draw inordinate attention – as it did here, diverting attention from some of the other announcements. For years, Basecamp offered a fitness benefit, a wellness allowance and continuing-education subsidies. “They felt good at the time, but we’ve had a change of heart. It’s none of our business what you do outside of work, and it’s not Basecamp’s place to encourage certain behaviours – regardless of good intention,” Mr. Fried wrote.

Mr. Fried’s explanation of not lingering on decisions may ring some bells for you: “We’ve become a bit too precious with decision-making over the last few years. Either by wallowing in indecisiveness, worrying ourselves into overthinking things, taking on a defensive posture and assuming the worst outcome is the likely outcome … It’s time to get back to making calls, explaining why once, and moving on.

 

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