Simplicity vs, Complexity

“For every complex problem, there is a solution that is clear, simple, and wrong.” – H. L. Mencken

The operation of a Micrex®/Microcreper™ is complex. I wish it were not that way. Success only came when we embraced the difficulty and committed to being technologists rather than machinery manufactures.

The way Micrex deals with the complexity is through our extensive trial program. During trials we have customers who quickly form their own theories on how the technology works. Good minds do that, but unfortunately the desire to immediately understand something blinds one to the complexity.

I like to give the example of musical instruments. To me the piano looks hopelessly complex. Many keys and combinations of keys. The trumpet has only three keys and usually leads the band. As a child I chose to play the trumpet. A big mistake for me and I am sure little joy for my parents. The trumpet requires weeks of practice before managing the most basic tune. Had I done some research and developed a better understanding of the issues I would have chosen the piano and been making music from day one rather than a lousy horn player.

This is in complete conflict to Occam’s razor where the simplest theory is given priority.