KISS (Keep It Simple, Stupid)
Acronyms and Abbreviations
A design principle advocating simplicity and avoidance of unnecessary complexity. KISS suggests that simplicity leads to better usability and user satisfaction.
In practice
Throughout the design and development process, designers, developers, and project managers adhere to the Keep It Simple, Stupid (KISS) principle by simplifying design elements and avoiding unnecessary complexity. The goal is to enhance user understanding, streamline interactions, and create designs that are intuitive and user-friendly. The KISS principle promotes a straightforward approach, reducing cognitive load and contributing to positive user experiences.
Questions
What is KISS (Keep It Simple, Stupid)?
A principle holding that systems work best when kept as simple as possible, and that unnecessary complexity should be treated as a fault.
Why do you use KISS (Keep It Simple, Stupid)?
Complexity compounds. Every extra option, state or component multiplies the ways something can go wrong and the effort to maintain it.
How do you use/apply KISS (Keep It Simple, Stupid)?
Ask what can be removed rather than what can be added, and be suspicious of any feature justified only by an edge case.
When do you use KISS (Keep It Simple, Stupid)?
Continuously, and especially when reviewing a design that has grown.
Who uses KISS (Keep It Simple, Stupid)?
Designers and engineers, originally from aeronautical engineering.
