UI/UX Principles #10: Tesler's Law

Complexity never disappears, it only shifts. Larry Tesler recognized in the 1980s: Every system has an unavoidable core complexity - either the user bears it or the system does.

Practical Application: Shift complexity to the backend, automatic processes instead of manual inputs, set intelligent defaults. Progressive disclosure shows complex features only when needed.

Result: Users experience intuitive interfaces without frustration. Good design means managing complexity rather than eliminating it. Designers bear the burden so users don't have to.