Simplicity is about Valuing People

When we talk about simplicity we always put it in context in the usual expected ways. The usual favorite is associating Simplicity with making products easier to use. Simplicity as a design language is also a good one. Simplicity is also used synonymously with “less is more”. All simplicity discussions almost always also end with designers lamenting how simplicity is hard or simplicity requires a complex processes to get there.
Here is another way to look as Simplicity.
What if we consider Simplicity as an act or an approach to design that is all about valuing people? By doing so, it suddenly re-frames what Simplicity is all about. If we start creating products or services that has an agenda that respects people, it means we need to create products or services that people “get it” right away and do not have to spend all day figuring out how it all works. That’s right, look to reduce annoyances or pain points that steal time from people who could spend this lost time on more important things like spending time with their loved ones.
Suddenly it makes even more sense for simplicity to be part of your design process.
In the same spirit of this discussion, this post, and many more in the future, will be made intentionally short and sharp. This is because I respect your time, and that the time you spent visiting Design Sojourn and reading my posts could be used in many other ways. I am grateful that you have found it worthwhile to spend your time with me. Thank you.