When uncertainty hits, it’s tempting to start making cuts. But indiscriminate subtraction can backfire, making systems brittle, reducing visibility, and draining long-term value from your business. Before making any cut, apply this triple test: Will it improve efficiency, build resilience, and elevate prominence? If the answer is no, rethink it. If the answer is yes, approach the subtraction in one of six ways.
Eliminate what no longer adds value. Cut components, steps, or rules that don’t serve a clear function. Done right, this boosts speed, reduces costs, and sharpens focus without undermining trust or capability.
Substitute complexity with simplicity. Swap out high-maintenance tools or workflows with simpler options that meet the same need—faster, cheaper, and more reliably.
Consolidate overlapping functions. Merge tasks, systems, or touchpoints into integrated solutions. This reduces duplicative efforts, improves continuity, and enhances the user experience.
Hide complexity behind clean interfaces. Keep systems powerful under the hood, but conceal nonessential details so users only see what they need, reducing overload while keeping functionality intact.
Pause, don’t delete. Suspend features or services that aren’t needed now but may return. This preserves flexibility and avoids burning bridges.
Abstract the backend. Use interface layers to simplify user interaction with complex systems, making advanced functionality accessible and scalable. |
