Upside: Keep tech simple, stupid Sep 25, 2000, 16 :55 UTC (17 Talkback[s]) (7226 reads) (Other stories by Richard L. Brandt)
"The curious thing is why it's so difficult to do. It seems as though many things conspire against
simplicity in computers. The phenomenal increase in computer power means that computers get
more complex, not simpler. Designers, marketers and product reviewers always demand the latest,
coolest new features, whether we want them or not. And it is done despite all the evidence that says
the opposite model is most rewarded....."
"And yet, most companies fail miserably at this not-so-simple task of simplicity. Perhaps Microsoft
sets the example, as one of the world's most successful companies despite its reputation for obscure,
complex and unreliable products. The only thing I can figure is that its other talents -- marketing,
leverage and relentless pursuit of the markets -- make up for its lack of simplicity."
"And we keep making the same mistake over and over again. Everyone (with the exception of myself
and a few clinically insane individuals) believes that Linux has extraordinary potential. Yes, it's
supposed to be stable, a mark in its favor, and it is a really cool and radical model of how to develop a
new product. But how much of the buying public has the slightest clue as to how to use Linux?"
