Why do software developers love complexity?
3 days ago
- #complexity-vs-simplicity
- #software-development
- #engineering-culture
- The Great Pyramids symbolize monumental human effort, similar to how software developers build complex systems today.
- Despite advanced tools, software often becomes unnecessarily complex, contrary to the KISS (Keep It Simple, Stupid) principle.
- Marketing often favors complexity over simplicity, as seen in exaggerated product examples like 'Penzilla' or 'catzilla'.
- Complexity can signal effort, expertise, and exclusivity, making it a status symbol rather than a necessity.
- Modern software layers (dependencies, frameworks) can hide a lack of substance, similar to the empty chambers in pyramids.
- Simplicity is often overlooked but tends to win in the long run due to its functional reliability.
- React vs. vanilla JavaScript illustrates how frameworks add unnecessary complexity compared to simpler alternatives.
- Developers embrace complexity due to creative temptation, legacy systems, team dynamics, and pressure to innovate.
- Building with purpose, like the Egyptians, ensures value rather than hollow complexity that burdens future maintainers.