- Shopify unveiled internal software to boost efficiency.
- Systems track projects and model staffing needs.
- These workplace innovations parallel Shopify’s merchant tools.
Shopify OS, its own internal operating system
E-commerce platform Shopify offered a rare inside look at its custom-built workplace software systems during a recent investor day presentation – highlighting efficiency tools aligned with its recent mass layoffs.
Executives demonstrated Shopify OS, an operating system that models optimal staffing and budgets for leaders to reference when making business decisions.
The system forecasts ripple effect outcomes on areas like headcount and payroll when creating new groups or incorporating more AI.
Project management with GSD
Another highlighted program dubbed GSD (get stuff done) brings visibility into employee project progress by organizing tasks under themes, missions, and 6-week reviews by top brass.
The goal is to keep company-wide efforts on track through rapid feedback cycles.
Workplace innovations
Such workplace software innovations parallel Shopify’s primary business of empowering merchant success through digital tools, according to COO Kaz Nejatian.
“We build software to build software, just like Tesla builds robots to build cars,” he commented, citing flattened management layers and unique policies like Flex Comp pay models as further optimization
CEO Tobi Lütke views perpetual workplace improvement as core to Shopify’s identity. “Everything can be improved – the best company is a 4 out of 10 on how good it could be,” he said. “So trying to be the first 5 out of 10 is valuable.”
By dogfooding specialized digital infrastructure akin to its merchant products, Shopify pushes workplace possibilities while streamlining its renewed focus on efficiency.
