37 Signals criticizes buzzwords and makes a good argument for simplicity

Matt Linderman over at 37 Signals wrote a thought provoking article titled “Buzzwords say all the wrong things“. Matt advocates the use of simple speach that is easy for all to understand. He indicates that it has been his experience that for many individuals:

“These buzzwords are often a mask. People who use them are covering up their ideas — or the lack thereof. They are overcompensating. They don’t have anything substantial to say so they try to use impressive sounding words instead.”

I think Matt misses an opportunity to observe that some people may tend to use buzzwords to fit in with co-workers or associates — there can be a strong drive to be part of the “IT Crowd”. Others may use complex language and exhausted sounding buzzwords to gain recognition from supervisors or upper management.

In addition to speaking in simple terms it may be helpful to slow down. Fast paced, intense deadlines may prevent people from gaining the understanding they need to master the task at hand.