Simplicity is a key value. Unfortunately simplicity does not just happen. In fact, the opposite happens. Things do not become simpler but become ever more complicated over time.

This means that a serious, determined effort must be made to achieve simplicity. That is what this course is about.

Attitudes, frameworks and specific thinking techniques all contribute to the design of simplicity. General, well-meaning intention to make things simpler is never enough. There is hard work to be done.

Information, experience and analysis are not enough. Design thinking and creative thinking are essential. Our traditional thinking habits involve analyzing a situation to identify standard elements so that we can then apply standard answers. This system is excellent, just as the front left wheel of a motor car is excellent. But it is not enough. A car needs four wheels to run properly. We can analyze the past, but we need to design the way forward.

"Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication" - Leonardo Da Vinci

"Simplicity is the outward sign and symbol of depth of thought" - Lin Yutang

"Things should be made as simple as possible, but not simpler" - Albert Einstein

The Simplicity Tools