Cybernetics

Cybernetics is a catch-all term for using multiple fields to study any system involving feedback loops or state changes, usually with the goal of optimization. Since the term "system" is loosely defined as just about anything and many disciplines can be used to study them, in very general terms cybernetics can be considered the study of cause and effect.

Some promote the scientific approach of repeatable experiments with data, but others promote the interpretive "arts" approach since repeatable experiments are impossible in some situations. One of the more distinctive qualities of cybernetics is the attempt of using multiple disciplines to achieve both depth and breadth of analysis. Of course, the trouble is there are always more fields and methods available, so the depth and breadth can always be increased.

A recent discussion on HN involved an article that might be classified as cybernetics:

"Cognitive Overhead, Or Why Your Product Isn't As Simple As You Think (techcrunch.com) " https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=5583759

The article did a good job of explaining the feedback loop caused by "Cognitive Load" and providing solid examples. On the other hand, it lacked breadth. They missed the important difference between "start load" and "run load" as well as the effects of continued load over time. They made a good point about how reducing _initial_ cognitive load is good for growth due to reducing friction. They missed how _continuing_ load results in people gaining experience and familiarity (e.g. learning more uses, learning additional features, etc.). They also missed how these slowly trained users result in an effective form of vendor lock-in by becoming an impediment to competition (resistance to change). It might seem odd and obvious, but both time and experience are important state changes worth understanding and measuring.

DISCLAIMER: I hate to let anyone down, but I'm actually not very well versed in cybernetics. The only reason why I know about this stuff is due to my dad (in his mid 70's) having his masters degree in cybernetics (communications in business environments).