Why less is usually better.
WHAT EVERY ADDITION COSTS
Attention A decision for the user Space Something to maintain Something that can break
WHY THAT MATTERS
Interfaces accumulate. Nothing is ever removed.
WHAT ACCUMULATION PRODUCES
Options nobody uses, obscuring the ones people need.
WHAT TO ASK BEFORE ADDING ANYTHING
What proportion of users need this? What happens if it is not there? Can it be automatic instead?
THAT LAST QUESTION
Frequently the best answer. A setting nobody should have to choose should be chosen for them.
WHAT TO DO ABOUT RARELY USED FEATURES
Move them, rather than removing capability.
Common actions prominent, rare actions available.
WHAT TO RESIST
Adding an option because one customer requested it Adding a feature because a competitor has one
WHAT TO REVIEW PERIODICALLY
What is actually used.
WHAT TO REMOVE
What is not.
WHAT THAT REQUIRES
Evidence, and the willingness to act on it.
