I think about this one very often. I think it can even be generalized: "complex system problem seems intractable due to complexity... I know, I can simplify som

I think about this one very often. I think it can even be generalized: "complex system problem seems intractable due to complexity... I know, I can simplify some bits of it by adding complexity to it". I know way too many coders and firms taking a "throw stuff to the wall and see what sticks" approach to software. The phrase "just solve the problem and move on" comes to mind. These places are often in firefighting mode and cannot connect the dots for some reason.