Simplification Principles

Some of the programming principles Martin Nally established have contributed to a noticeable change in IBM culture.

• The "Notepad" principle: Programming models should be documented in terms of simple file formats that can be created using standard editors by developers.
  
• The programming model should be written down before detailed system design takes place, not afterward.
  
• Programming models should be documented in terms of scenarios and samples that show step-by-step how all of the artifacts, including code and ancillary files, are created. The scenarios should also show how the application is modified and how it is deployed and administered.