I’ve always found deep value in simple axioms and razors that guide our decision-making. In a world that often rewards complexity, principles like Gall’s Law remind us that starting small can lead to robust, adaptable systems.

Gall’s Law states:
A complex system that works is invariably found to have evolved from a simple system that worked.

Rather than attempting to design a fully-fledged, intricate system from scratch, this axiom encourages us to begin with a minimal, functional core. Over time, through iterative improvements and natural evolution, complexity can be introduced in a controlled and effective manner.

Why This Principle Resonates

  • Incremental Improvement: Building a system from a simple, working foundation reduces risk and promotes gradual, reliable growth.
  • Evolutionary Design: Just as biological organisms evolve over time to adapt to changing environments, systems evolve to meet new challenges and requirements.
  • Risk Mitigation: By starting simple, unforeseen complications are minimized, ensuring that each added layer of complexity is both necessary and manageable.

Common Applications

  1. Software Development: Many successful projects launch as minimal viable products (MVPs) and evolve based on user feedback and practical experience.
  2. Organizational Structures: Effective businesses often start with streamlined processes that gradually evolve into more complex frameworks as the organization grows.
  3. Biological Systems: Nature itself exemplifies Gall’s Law; from simple, single-celled organisms to the complex life forms we see today, evolution has consistently built on simple, effective beginnings.

This guiding principle not only reinforces my appreciation for simple razors but also serves as a reminder that lasting solutions often emerge from humble origins.