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About this quote

What does it mean?
Giving users control over complex systems often leads to mistakes because they lack expertise.
In plain terms
People adjust complex systems incorrectly when given too much control.
What can you take from it?
Limit user adjustments on complex systems to prevent errors.

Where it applies

  • product design
  • technical support
  • system configuration

Putting it to work

  • simplify user controls
  • restrict access to critical settings

Questions to consider

  • How much control should users have?
  • What risks come with user adjustments?

Another view

Users may need flexibility for advanced use cases.

More from Colin Chapman

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  3. Simplicate, then add lightness.

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