The KISS principle (acronym for “Keep It Simple, Stupid”) states that design simplicity should be a key goal and unnecessary complexity avoided. It serves as a useful principle in a wide array of disciplines, such as software development, animation, photography, engineering, and strategic planning. Common variants of the acronym include: “Keep It Sweet & Simple”, and “Keep It Short & Simple”. The form “Keep It Simple, Silly” is sometimes used in situations (for example, explaining the phrase to children) where “stupid” may be perceived as being too harsh.
April 12, 2008