PM Perspective

Are You a Simplifier or an Optimizer?

Do you optimize every minute to squeeze the most out of each day, or do you search for the easiest path to get a task done? In his book How to Fail at Everything and Still Win Big, Scott Adams explores this balance, which raises an interesting question: How does being a simplifier or an optimizer shape our professional lives, particularly as Product Managers? How do we balance streamlining workstreams with finding the quickest solutions?

Understanding the Problem We’re Solving

The first step is understanding the problem’s scope. Are we dealing with a tight deadline? Or do we have room to explore more efficient approaches? If we face a defined problem with a strict timeline, simplifying might be the best starting point. Simplifying reduces project risks and sets a solid foundation for future optimization. Adams illustrates this with a personal example—he’s a simplifier, while his wife is an optimizer. For a night out, his plan is straightforward, focusing only on relaxation. Meanwhile, his wife sees opportunities to maximize efficiency, suggesting they drop off laundry or return an item on the way. This difference in approach highlights the essential contrast: simplifiers focus on the direct path, while optimizers seek to fit in as much as possible.

What Are We Optimizing For?

Once the problem is defined, it’s crucial to determine what we’re optimizing. Are we aiming for efficiency just for the sake of it, or is there a clear, actionable goal? Optimization without a clear purpose can lead to wasted effort, so setting specific goals is essential. Here, the S.M.A.R.T. criteria can be a useful guide:

• Simple – Optimization should focus on a straightforward task. Complex goals can quickly become confusing and cause the team to lose focus.

• Measurable – Data should back our optimization efforts. Without it, we can’t assess whether changes are effective.

• Achievable – Goals should be within the team’s reach. Dreaming up teleportation to cut commute times might sound great, but it’s hardly realistic.

• Realistic – Consider constraints like deadlines, team size, and budget to ensure goals are practical.

• Timely – Finally, optimization isn’t useful until it’s accessible to the team. Goals should be achievable within a reasonable time frame.

Simplifier or Optimizer—Which Are You?

Consider how your style affects your day-to-day work. If you’re a simplifier, you may prioritize clear, actionable steps that lead directly to the goal, reducing complexity. As an optimizer, you’re likely to focus on making processes as efficient as possible, even if it involves additional steps. Both approaches have strengths; the key is knowing when each style is most effective. For product managers, finding the right balance between simplifying and optimizing can make a profound difference in team productivity and project success.