Simplicity is undervalued and overhyped

Simplicity by itself is an easy term to understand. It creates a picture and evokes a feeling of being uncluttered, fuss-free, clear and demystified. It also has the ability to transfer this quality to any scenario it gets attached to.

However, the quest for simplicity has become a difficult path to trod upon. We as carriers and translators of this concept are losing the essence and potency of its impact. We twist it and adapt it to suit our fixed idea and vision.

One definition of simplicity is the quality or condition of being easy to understand and do. The other mentions freedom from complexity, intricacy or division into parts.

But what if the road to understanding needs a layer of intricacy or complexity?

This partial interpretation of simplicity compels us to embrace one aspect of the definition and shun the others. As a designer, I witness this all the time. In products, spaces, services, visual communication and recently the digital medium.

Clean lines, white backgrounds, crisp fonts, minimal information and basic layouts does not necessarily imply simplicity. Of course, this is one of its powerful expressions, but does not define the term. Similarly, the absence of complexity, intricacy, density and elaboration also does not always convey simplification.

I have gradually come to understand that there is much more to this ‘difficult to define term’. The absence of which is realized, but the presence goes unnoticed.

Simplicity can be objectively seen in certain scenarios,when ruled by rationality and subjectively seen in others, when ruled by passion.

1.Simplicity can mean detail, providing multiple options and intricacy while viewing a travel map.

A checklist tourist wants to explore all the places from Point A to Point B. He needs to compare the modes of transport, route options, fare variations and the closest stop to his location. Here the nature and manner of communicating information plays an important part.

The more realistic and relatable the map, higher the reliability factor.

Crumpled City Maps by Palomar is a graphical treat, with just the right amount of information. It can also be crumpled and stuffed into your bag

2. Simplicity can mean precise diagrams and relevant descriptions for a college student, who is putting together a DIY furniture piece.

The step-by-step representation of a process supported by relevant depictions, is an art by itself. I have struggled and fumbled with putting together a simple DIY kit or an elaborate recipe, due to lack of instructions or a forced application of visual minimalism.

Ikea’s Genius Recipe Posters that help you with the exact quantity of ingredients

3. Simplicity is that back end analytics engine that comprehends volumes of data and delivers a message like ‘you may also like this’ on a fashion e-store.

Deciphering an overwhelming amount of data and funneling it down to those exacting key insights needs absolute clarity of process and intent.

Knowing exactly what you are looking for and giving it to you when you need it the most

4. Simplicity is abundance of choice when an artist wants to find that right hue of green to depict a scene on canvas, or a poet looking for that abstract word to convey his mystical dream.

The creatives value the freedom of selecting from a gamut of options, helping them craft their vision with as much precision.

The Pantone shade cards are a designer’s go-to guide for selecting the perfect colour palette

5. Simplicity is elaboration and more information while browsing a dating platform.

When one is looking for ‘that’ one person, there is no such thing as too much information. Here we are involving deep emotions like love and trust. A basic site without an overlay of emotions lead to apprehension, which means lack of action.

6. Simplicity is transparency and genuineness when you have to sign a legal agreement or examine a medical test result.

I have always wondered at my complete inability to comprehend an official document before signing it. I go ahead with the assumption that it will be just fine because everyone else is doing it. Does that suffice?

The same goes with the anxiety prior to viewing a blood test report and the perplexed, confused feeling that follows after a glimpse of the same.

Simplicity is a bike loaded with multiple smart features for a passionate rider and absolute complexity for a daily traveler.

Simplicity is a toolbox with multi-functional equipment for a mechanic and an overloaded, complex gadget for a ‘fix it on my own’ homemaker.

Simplicity is having innumerable options and being spoilt for choice.

Simplicity can be everything but simple.

Thoughts put together by

Priyanka Shroff