Simple is the new black

If you haven't noticed, we've had a paradigm shift.

We've changed our expectations of computer programs, from comprehensive and complex to simple and east-to-use.

In the old model, we had large, complicated programs that were accompanied by manuals (installation manuals, reference manuals, operations manuals) and how-to books ("Learn Microsoft Word in 21 Days!"). Recent versions of software had no printed manual but large help files and comprehensive web pages.

The value of the software was based on the weight of the box and accompanying materials. Small, light packages were valued less than heavy packages. An application with lots of documentation was worth more than an application with little documentation. Enterprise applications were worth even more, since they required not only manuals but dedicated administrators and specialists to teach the regular users.

Smartphones and tablets changed that model. They defined and validated a different method to evaluate software.

In the new model, we use software without referring to manuals. In the new model, we expect software to work for us. In the new model, we value results.

This bodes ill for programs such as Microsoft Word and Microsoft Excel. These programs are complex. They offer many features, and lots of control over the document (or spreadsheet), but they require a "ramp-up" time. We're no longer willing to pay that time. Software has been swallowed into the age of "immediate self-gratification".

It also bodes ill for enterprise software. Well, enterprise software that provides no value to the enterprise. Large corporations may put up with complicated software, but it must prove itself. We no longer send people to week-long classes for the use of software. The software has to work immediately, and people have to be productive immediately.

Complex and comprehensive is not sufficient. Software has to offer value, and it must be immediate and recognized. It must provide value to users (and the enterprise). And it must do it from "minute one", from when we start using the software. Forcing people to learn the habits and quirks of the software is "out"; making people effective immediately is "in".