Everything Speaks

In a series of articles I recently discovered, ThisIsInspired magazine is exploring the 7 Principles of Japanese Aesthetics. The first article introduced a term I was not familiar with – Kanso (簡素). Kanso means “simplicity and/or elimination of clutter.” The article explains that by definition, Kanso is when things are expressed in a simple, natural manner. But Kanso must be thought of beyond merely decoration. More importantly, it refers to clarity – a clarity that emerges by removing everything that is non-essential. By doing so, you create greater accessibility.

The article actually applies the concept to web design (good advice if you are in that process now). It occurred to me that it is also an important concept to apply across all organizational communications. Often, there are so many competing and inconsistent messages that what is seen, heard and experienced on a week-to-week basis only creates confusion. The competing messages actually become roadblocks to our messages being received.  Essentially, the complexity tunes people out.

If you want to reach people and get them talking about the essence of who you are, make yourself accessible. Practice Kanso.

Keep in mind that this is about simplification as opposed to oversimplification. People want and need identity, context, cues, understanding and to establish a relationship with your brand – with you.
The key is clarity + simplicity. Here are a few thoughts to help you get started.

• Clarify and articulate your vision
• Establish your brand identity
• Eliminate competing and non-essential messages
• Maintain consistency across all of your communications
• Inspire by reinforcing your vision through every sensory experience

Kanso.