Least amount of process principle

The least amount of process needed to do something is the right amount of process. For me this is a management principle that is akin to Occam's razor in science, where the simplest explanation is the correct one. As obvious or simple as this principle may be, it is violated all the time.

My main concern is with software development, but this principle is more universal for management, especially of creative work. The reason why this principle works is that all processes are carried out by a unique set of people who are all unique in their skills, personalities, and characters. As such, too much process will stifle the group and not allow the individuals to emerge and achieve.

This also means that you will encounter real difficulties when you take a defined process and try to implement it, because a defined process relies on roles that people have to play. You may get a group to enact a defined process, everyone playing their roles, but with time the process and roles will evolve based on the individuals. Of course this customization of the process is a good thing if you understand what's happening, and don't try to force things back to the defined process.