Software Architect's Handbook

KISS principle – "Keep It Simple, Stupid"

The KISS principle, which is an acronym for Keep It Simple, Stupid, has been used in numerous contexts to convey the idea that systems generally work best if they are kept simple. The principle is applicable to the design of software systems. A development team should strive to not overcomplicate their solutions.

Variations of the acronym include Keep It Short, Simple, Keep It Simple, Stupid, Keep It Simple, Straightforward, and Keep It Simple, Silly. All of them have the same basic meaning, which is to express the value of simplicity in designs.