The more simple we can make things, the better our projects, companies, families, health, etc. will be. It seems simple and like common sense but it's not. Just like common sense isn't always common, making things simple isn't always so simple. As far as philosophical razors go, Occam's Razor states that "things should not be multiplied unnecessarily." When translated for the non-philosopher like me, Occam's Razor can be translated as less complex solutions are more often correct and/or avoid extra or unlikely assumptions (don't unnecessarily complicate things). Occam's Razor was developed by a friar and theologian in the 1300's and has been discussed in various forms before and after his time.
Occam's Razor is essentially the KISS (Keep It Simple Stupid) Principle and applies well to construction in trying to simplify complex and variable filled processes. In construction, we don't need checklists for checklists and meetings before meetings. Keeping decisions and action at the lowest levels possible also keeps things simple, easy to understand and easy to act on. While construction can be stuck in its ways, this also means we shouldn't unnecessarily change processes or desired results.
Another common way simple or already understood processes and deliverables might be complicated is with technology tools (toys). To use a technology buzzword, simply changing the workflow might not be simple or best at all. When not done right, evaluating and then using technologies can complicate things, decrease room for error and negatively impact the bottom line. Simply replacing a traditional field or paper process with a new technology isn't always simple and isn't always beneficial. Oddly enough, additional time or cost might be incurred. Debating the effectiveness of new tools and technologies is a common debate by construction pros.
I think if we get back to a focus on truly simplifying things and using easy to identify or count results, we can make a big difference in our industry. We shouldn't always change things but we should always be looking at how changes might improve construction. If we keep things simple but effective, we can build a better world.
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