KISS Einstein
One of my main mantra's in running our company is the "Keep It Simple Stupid" (KISS (U.S. Navy 1960)) principle.
It is incredible how everything can be improved and how much more fun and easy, future work becomes when working hard on making things simpler.
But somehow, the first iteration of a solution is typically rather complex.
Does that mean we should try to think simpler thoughts?
Einstein doesn’t think so, and nor do I.
KISS needs qualification, that’s why I say “KISS Einstein”.
But before I explain, here are examples the kinds of simple solutions I value. I wonder if most would agree that simpler is better here?
Software development
Simplicity guarantees maintainable code with less errors.
Design
Too many details tend to clutter our perception of beauty. Clean lines are typically most appealing. Less is more (unless, of course, you’re building a Rococo church).
Marketing
Messages to our customers should be clear, concise and written in a language that everybody understands with clear value propositions.
Sales process
The easier it is for a customer to buy a product or service, the more likely it is that he or she will actually do so
Business models
Simple business models are perceived more fair and are easier to implement. On top of that, risk is reduced.
Legislation
Understandable laws with fewer exceptions are more accepted and seen as fair.
Most will nod… simplicity is a virtue.
But the problem with KISS is that it is too simple.
Einstein (some time between 1933 and 1950) can help here with the (attributed and simplified) statement "Everything should be made as simple as it can be, but not simpler".
Einstein qualifies KISS in a couple of ways.
First, simple solutions are made, you need to work on them.
Second, the simplest is not always the best, make a solution too simple and you will lose the essence.
The implication is that complex solutions should not be discarded, they should be refined.
I’m always looking for simple solutions, but I’m not looking for simple minds.