Yesterday, during a design review, a teammate suggested we add more elements to the design of our software, arguing that the current version appeared too basic. She elaborated that users might perceive it as lacking in thought and functionality. This sparked a reflection on the teachings of Dr. Ellie Goldratt, particularly his insights on complexity and perceived value.
The Complexity Trap
Dr. Goldratt often discussed how complexity can be misleadingly equated with value or depth of thought. We've all seen it in action: a 150-page document or a software suite with numerous features might seem impressive. It's easy to assume that more pages or more features equate to a more thoroughly considered product. However, this isn't always the case.
The Power of Simplification
The real challenge, as Goldratt would argue, lies not in adding but in subtracting. Reducing a 150-page document to a concise 4 or 5 pages requires not just effort but strategic thinking. Similarly, choosing to implement only three key features out of fifteen possible ones is an exercise in prioritization and foresight.
This process involves:
Second-order thinking: Moving beyond the immediate benefits of adding features or pages, to consider long-term effects, user needs, and resource allocation. Instead of asking "Can we do this?" we should ask, "Should we do this, and if so, why?"
Cognitive Resistance: Our brains naturally resist the hard work of simplification because it demands more mental effort. It's easier to add complexity than to refine and focus.
Why Simplify?
Simplification isn't just about aesthetics or ease of use; it's about efficiency, effectiveness, and clarity.
A simplified product:
Meets Core Needs: By focusing on what's essential, you ensure that the software does what it's supposed to do without overwhelming the user.
Enhances User Experience: Users are not bogged down by features they don't need, making the interaction with the product more intuitive and satisfying.