When it’s better to subtract than add

[jedishrfu]

This article discusses problem solving and how finding a solution where a few parts are left out is better than trying to keep all parts added.

https://arstechnica.com/science/2021/04/the-takeaway-is-that-we-dont-tend-to-take-things-away/

 

[PeroK]

A designer knows he has achieved perfection not when there is nothing left to add, but when there is nothing left to take away.

Antoine de Saint-Exupery

 

[jedishrfu]

There was a master chart maker who followed that advice:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Edward_Tufte

He cited the Napoleanic war chart by CJ Minard where six variables were laid out in such a clear and concise matter showing what happened to Napolean's army during the campaign.

It shows the number of Napoleon's troops; distance; temperature; latitude and longitude; direction of travel; and location relative to specific dates.