The best systems are decentralized, self-contained, loosly linked units. Think of the cells that make up a living organism.
- cell design is not the most efficient. Centralised design can be more efficient.
- this small inefficiency leaves room for graceful imperfection, and removes incentive to hone everything to within an inch of it's life. Mildly inefficient systems create room for life.
- cell design is more flexible and less fragile than centralized design.
- the cell design pattern can be seen everywhere in nature.
- cell design is more self-sustaining and needs less administrative overhead.
- cell design can adapt and change more easily.
- leadership (or administration) in cell design is closer and more accessible, so more directly responsible. Responsibility leads to results.
Related: self-enforcing protocols
Categories: Stub, Design, Philosophy