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Principle

16. Partial or excessive action

a. If it is difficult to obtain 100% of a desired effect, achieve

somewhat more or less to greatly simplify the problem.

Principle Description: Use “more of” an action or substances than is required, then deal with the results. Use “fewer” actions or substances than is required, and then deal with the results.

Hints on Usage: This principle is valuable in situations where an exact amount cannot be achieved. In these situations explore the following opportunities in order to achieve desired results.

- Try accepting “more” than the exact amount.

- Try accepting “less” than the exact amount.

- Consider using “less” followed by more.

- Consider using “more” and then backing off to “less”.

- Accept the fact that “more” exists and selectively use the

portion you need and find a way to transfer or dissipate the balance to another system or to the environment.

- Accept the fact that “less” exists and selectively focus,

concentrate or amplify the action specifically where it is needed.

Think in terms of achieving what can most easily be achieved and then, if necessary, find a way to make one or more incremental adjustments in the desired direction(s). In many cases, the easiest way to make incremental adjustments is by using a different form of energy (or a combination of different forms of energy) derived from mechanical, thermal, chemical, electrical, magnetic or electromagnetic fields.

Examples:

The classic example is the use of a saw to cut product from an extrusion line. Saws are generally sized to accomplish the task so quickly that the cut is completed before pressure of the coming extrusion makes the cut difficult (excessive action). However, if extrusion speed is increased, new saws must be purchased unless the old saw only cuts partially and then another old saw completes the cut later.

Excessive doses of radiation are lethal but partial doses can help mitigate cancer growth.

Pulsed lasers etch metal using both partial and excessive actions in combination. Pulsing is partial action that limits the power needs of the etching process, but the peak energy delivered during the pulse is excessive to accomplish the etch.

Razor manufacturers add extra blades (excessive action) to their shavers to create a closer shave.

The use of excessive force during a battle can demoralize the enemy and lead to early surrender.

Parents sometimes use excessive or exaggerated action with their young children (yelling or spanking) at the moment a safety issue arises (i.e., running carelessly into the street) so they do not repeat that unsafe behavior.

For difficult problems, computers are networked together to create brute force computational capability (excessive action) so problems can be solved quickly. Clever mathematicians, create acceptable assumptions and techniques (partial action) so that far less computer muscle is required.

Antibiotics are traditionally delivered orally or by shot in a large dose and over time to control infection. Nano-technology promises that the remedy will someday be delivered directly to the offending infectious bacteria (partial action).

In persuasion, sometimes understatement (partial action) is very influential.