KEEPING IT AS SIMPLE AS NECESSARY
I was inspired by a post some time ago from David E. Marlow.
If you take a look at David’s post, you’ll find some fascinating thoughts about the difference between simplifying things enough, but not too much. This got me thinking about what true innovation really is and what is simply posturing.
Here’s what I mean:?
1)If we have complexity, whether it’s of a concept or a product that makes it difficult to understand, or use, is this because that complexity is necessary, or can it be simplified so that it’s easier to understand or use?
2) If we have simplified versions of either a concept, or a product, is this because the simplified version makes it easier to understand or use, or does it make it more efficient?
Sometimes there’s complexity in order to fully handle all the nuances and details necessary for the purpose for which it has been designed. Sometimes complexity is created as a result of lack of clarity, or lack of ability to synthesize. Sometimes it’s created deliberately to make the creator appear more intelligent than those around them.
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On the other hand, sometimes simplification ends up ‘dumbing’ down a concept or product. This results in an incomplete understanding of the concept and a loss of usefulness of the product.?In my comment on David’s post I mentioned the example of the evolution of the tablet and its capabilities as opposed to that of the laptop.?The tablet is a great innovation in many ways, but often the apps for that platform are less powerful than the apps we use on the laptop. In that instance, the simplification is good, but in limited respects.
The ramifications of all of these options can be far reaching. For instance, if we act on our understanding of a concept - either one that is overly complex, or one that has been overly simplified, we could end up being disappointed by the results or consequences.
Thinking about this really brought home to me the importance we place on developing Optevo.?This kind of work tool has to be both a workhorse and a conveyor belt.?A workhorse, because it has to have the power to do multiple things, all of which are crucial for workflow, collaboration, communication, data accessibility etc. ?It has to be simple and streamlined enough that the interface is easy to understand and quick to use.
I think this is the case for many products on the market, but especially so in technology related things. While the younger generations are digital natives, having been born with a smartphone in one hand and a virtual reality gadget in the other, those of us who’re a little older are learning to live in an increasingly digital world. These things are perhaps not as instinctive as they are for digital natives.
My thoughts are that when we are looking at creating something, whether it’s a concept, a product, a service etc, we have to think very carefully about why it’s necessary, what it should achieve and most importantly, who will be using it and how easy it will be for them to do so. Then begin creating it. As Einstein said:?as simple as necessary, but no simpler.
I’d be interested to hear your thoughts.
?#Leadership #HybridWork #RemoteWork #Optevo #CWM #business #technology #innovation #integrity #honesty
The Myth Slayer?? Transformational Coach for Attorneys ?? 2x TEDx Speaker ?? Ignite Rebirth, Inspiration, & Bold Impact ?? I Want Your Future to Be EPIC!
2 年Andre Williams : this truly had me thinking about past experiences both in the workplace and with technology. In government projects, nuance and complexity were usually necessary, but often bureaucratic mindsets often took the complexity over the top. In tech, feature creep and lack of focus on what actually matters to the customer can make things seem pointlessly complex, which is the worst. This article gave a wise framework for what is assessing what, and that’s very much appreciated.
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3 年Consistent action toward the game changers in your life will take you far. Stop analyzing and get to work! I love the simplicity you’re sharing here Andre Williams Well done.
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3 年Andre Williams wow alot of moving parts to this one. Whenever I'm creating something new, I start with alot of questions. What do I want it to deliver? Does that matter? How does it make me feel. Asking others what their needs are. I will test it, regardless if it's meant for me our not. I have other people test it. It can be trail and error until it's the right mix. Being open to feedback will keep you from getting stuck on one side or another.
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3 年Great insights as always Andre! I kept thinking about the idea of being effective and efficient. So if simple achieves that then great. Do it. If a complex system does what you want then do that. ??
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3 年"As simple as necessary, but no simpler!"?This is right on, and exactly what we need in technology, education, and everything we do! Love it! Dumbing down is a problem - but so is overcomplicating things just to "sound smart."