Complexity in software development is no accident. We are expected to build increasingly complex systems, since those promise to increase the value delivered. However, complexity in software systems make our life miserable. Its consequences include incomprehensible systems, missed milestones, and dissatisfied customers.

Complexity in software development is an accident. Our own decisions tend to increase the complexity while building large software systems. Team organization and development process influence the technical complexity, and single development decisions impact the long tail of installation and update.

Finally, managing complexity is an important ability of software developers, architects, and managers. This talk gives an introduction how and where complexity arises, how it can be spotted, whether it can be hidden or ignored, and when it needs to be communicated.