Skip to content

We tried to avoid, you know, records. We were told over…

“We tried to avoid, you know, records. We were told over and over that was probably the most serious mistake and the reason was the system would never catch on, because we didn't have records.” quote by Ken Thompson
Download Open image
“We tried to avoid, you know, records. We were told over and over that was probably the most serious mistake and the reason was the system would never catch on, because we didn't have records.”

Ken Thompson

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

The speaker warns that avoiding record‑keeping hindered the system’s adoption, implying that documentation is crucial for technology to spread.

In simple terms: Skipping records hurt the system’s success.

Key Takeaway

Document your work to ensure adoption.

Themes

technology documentation adoption

Mood

cautious analytical

Type

practical advisory

When to use this quote

  • software development
  • project management
  • open source communities

Key Concepts

record‑keeping system design learning curves

Questions to Reflect On

  • What balance should be struck between speed and documentation?
  • How can teams keep records without slowing progress?
A Different Perspective

Too much focus on records can stifle rapid innovation.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Ken Thompson

Explore all 41 Ken Thompson quotes

More Avoid quotes

Browse all 985 Avoid quotes