Meaning: Yukihiro Matsumoto, also known as Matz, is a Japanese computer scientist and the creator of the Ruby programming language. The quote "I believe consistency and orthogonality are tools of design, not the primary goal in design" reflects Matsumoto's approach to software design and programming. In this quote, he emphasizes that while consistency and orthogonality are important principles in design, they should be viewed as tools to achieve the primary goal of design, rather than the main objectives themselves.

Consistency in design refers to the practice of maintaining uniformity and coherence throughout a system or product. This can include consistent naming conventions, coding styles, and user interface elements. Consistency is important because it helps users understand and navigate a system more easily. It also contributes to the overall aesthetics and professionalism of a product. However, as Matsumoto suggests, consistency should not be pursued at the expense of other design considerations. It should be used as a tool to enhance the overall user experience and functionality of the design.

Orthogonality in design refers to the principle that different components of a system should have minimal or no interaction with each other. In programming, this can mean that different modules or functions should be independent and not tightly coupled. Orthogonality is important for maintaining the flexibility and maintainability of a system. It allows for easier debugging, testing, and modification of individual components without affecting the entire system. Matsumoto's view on orthogonality as a tool of design aligns with the idea that it should be leveraged to achieve the primary goal of the design, rather than being pursued as an end in itself.

By stating that consistency and orthogonality are tools of design, Matsumoto highlights the dynamic and multifaceted nature of the design process. Design is not a rigid set of rules or principles to be followed dogmatically, but rather a creative and problem-solving endeavor. Consistency and orthogonality are valuable tools in the designer's toolkit, but they should be applied judiciously and in service of the larger objectives of the design.

Matsumoto's perspective on design aligns with the principles of user-centered design and iterative development. User-centered design emphasizes the importance of understanding and prioritizing the needs of the end users. While consistency and orthogonality are important for creating a cohesive and efficient design, they should not overshadow the primary goal of creating a product that effectively meets the needs and expectations of its users.

Furthermore, Matsumoto's view on design aligns with the iterative development approach, where design decisions are continuously evaluated and refined based on feedback and testing. In this context, consistency and orthogonality are seen as tools that can be adjusted and improved over time to better serve the evolving requirements of the design.

In conclusion, Yukihiro Matsumoto's quote reflects a nuanced and pragmatic approach to design. Consistency and orthogonality are important tools in the designer's toolkit, but they should be used in service of the primary goal of the design. By prioritizing the overarching objectives of the design, such as user satisfaction and functionality, designers can create more impactful and meaningful solutions. Matsumoto's perspective serves as a valuable reminder that design principles should be flexible and adaptive, supporting the broader aims of the design process.