Both the parent and gp mentioned graphic design. I think you can make the case for designing something simply, over and above aesthetics. I hope we can agree t

Both the parent and gp mentioned graphic design. I think you can make the case for designing something simply, over and above aesthetics. I hope we can agree that adding unnecessary complexity to software is bad, and that simplicity should be something to strive for. Am not saying graphic design is nearly as (inherently) complex as computer engineering, but neither benefits from complicating things that don't need to be complicated. You provide a good example with your reference manual. The diagrams will be clear, the fonts readable, they wont have jazzy designs etc etc etc.