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What is the Keep it Simple, Stupid (KISS) Principle?
The “keep it simple, stupid” (KISS) principle is a design rule that states systems perform best when they have simple designs rather than complex ones. For example, in software development, product design, or when creating websites, it is best to aim for simplicity – while still being effective – to make things easier to understand and use.
The KISS principle is applied in many fields, including software development, user interface (UI) design, and engineering. It helps prevent creeping featurism, system failures, and other IT issues.
Although the KISS acronym contains the word “stupid,” it is not meant to imply stupidity (i.e., lack of intelligence). On the contrary, it refers to intelligent systems that are straightforward and easy to use.
Key Takeaways
- Keep it simple, stupid meaning – simplicity is a key goal.
- KISS is usually associated with intelligent systems.
- Kelly Johnson, an engineer for the Lockheed Skunk, formulated the KISS principle in the mid-1900s.
- Implementing KISS can significantly reduce complexity in development projects.
- Other forms include “keep it short and simple” and “keep it simple and straightforward.”
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KISS Principle Origins
Kelly Johnson formulated the KISS principle in the mid-1900s while working as an engineer for the Lockheed Skunkworks, Lockheed Martin’s advanced aircraft development program. Johnson coined the KISS principle during a long engineering career of designing systems with simple repair capabilities, using tools and skills used by average mechanics.
How KISS Principle Works
Today, the KISS principle is a fundamental concept in programming, where function and instruction creep can make programs unmanageable over time. The Interaction Design Foundation (IxDF) states that designs and systems should be as simple as possible, with complexity avoided. In other words, simplicity offers the highest levels of user acceptance and interaction.
The KISS principle is similar to older concepts:
KISS Principle Forms
Other KISS principle forms include “keep it short and simple” and “keep it simple and straightforward.” However, the “a” in both phrases is omitted in the acronym.
Regardless of which version is used, they all describe the same design concept: to be as simple as possible and avoid unnecessary complexity.
6 Tips to Implement KISS Principle
In programming, the KISS principle emphasizes keeping it simple to enhance code clarity and maintainability. As noted by Simple Programmer, implementing KISS can significantly reduce complexity in development projects.
Tips to implement the KISS principle:
- Assign one responsibility to each class.
- Avoid reusing variables for different purposes.
- Ensure variable names accurately represent their purpose.
- Keep methods focused on a single task and name accordingly.
- Minimize the use of global states and actions.
- Remove redundant or unused code.
KISS Principle Applications
In software development, KISS refers to designing applications with simple back-end and front- end code. Basically, prioritizes straightforward solutions over complex ones. This approach helps current and future developer teams understand and maintain the code, as well as implement code changes more efficiently.
Other common applications of the KISS principle include user experience design (UXD), where the user interface contains only essential options, making it easy for users to navigate. Additionally, it is also used in project management, technical writing, engineering, product design, marketing, and many other fields.
KISS Principle Examples
When it comes to product design, Apple is one of the most commonly cited examples of the KISS principle. Apple products are designed with an emphasis on simplicity, making them simple, user-friendly, and accessible to individuals with varying levels of digital literacy and experience. This ensures users are not overwhelmed by too many features and options.
Another KISS principle example is when site developers use a website builder to prioritize site pages and organize them logically. This creates a simple, straightforward navigation bar, reducing complexity and confusion for site visitors.
KISS Principle Alternatives
KISS Principle Pros and Cons
- Easier to understand, manage, and maintain systems
- Efficient development cycles
- Quicker problem-solving and decision-making
- Fail to address complex requirements
- Oversimplified solutions
- Solutions lack important features
The Bottom Line
The keep it simple, stupid principle definition refers to a development rule stating that systems perform best when they have simple designs rather than complex ones. The KISS principle helps developer teams understand, maintain, and efficiently implement changes to systems or code. It typically results in products and services that are easier for consumers to understand and use.
While KISS is pretty straightforward – the acronym is often adapted as “keep it simple and straightforward,” – it’s important to know that in some situations, it may fail to address complex application requirements. Developers who focus heavily on simplicity may inadvertently overlook important features in an effort to keep it simple, stupid.
FAQs
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References
- UX Design Courses & Global UX Community | IxDF (Interaction-design)
- KISS — One Best Practice to Rule Them All (Simpleprogrammer)
- SOLID: The First 5 Principles of Object Oriented Design | DigitalOcean (Digitalocean)
