Given two solutions that produce the same outcome, the simpler one is better. This principle, attributed to the fourteenth-century philosopher William of Ockham, was originally a guideline for scientific theorising: avoid multiplying entities beyond necessity. Applied to design, it becomes a powerful heuristic for cutting scope, reducing visual complexity, and making interface decisions when multiple approaches are viable. The simplest solution that adequately meets user needs is almost always preferable, not for aesthetic reasons, but because simplicity reduces the surface area for confusion, error, and maintenance burden.
Occam's Razor
Why the simplest solution that works is almost always the best one
A
Designers Academy
24 September 2025 · 5 min read
UXPrinciples
In brief
Occam's Razor, applied to design, is the principle that the simplest solution adequately meeting user needs is almost always preferable because it reduces confusion, errors, and maintenance burdens.
