Fortune finishes the great quotations, #12 Those who can, do. Those who can't, write the instructions.

Exploring the Wisdom of "Those Who Can, Do. Those Who Can't, Write the Instructions"

The phrase "Those who can, do. Those who can't, write the instructions" is a clever and often quoted remark that succinctly captures a common perception about the roles of doers and instructors in various fields.

The Origins of the Quotation

Although the exact origin of this quote is ambiguous, it is commonly attributed to George Bernard Shaw, the prolific Irish playwright and critic. However, the precise wording and context are not found in his known works. The sentiment echoes Shaw's often satirical take on society, but it is possible that the phrase evolved or was misattributed over time. Regardless of its true source, the saying has become a staple in popular culture and workplace banter.

Deeper Insights into the Quote

At first glance, the quote seems to pit doers against instructors, suggesting a hierarchy where those who can perform a task are superior to those who cannot and therefore write instructions. However, a deeper examination reveals a more nuanced understanding.

1. The Value of Skill and Action: The first part, "Those who can, do," celebrates the importance of practical skills and the ability to execute. It acknowledges that being able to perform a task is a valuable and commendable trait.

2. The Role of Knowledge Transfer: The second part, "Those who can't, write the instructions," highlights the necessity of instruction and guidance. Not everyone can perform every task, and even those who can often need guidance to refine their skills or learn complex procedures. Writing instructions is an art in itself and requires a deep understanding of the subject matter to convey it clearly to others.

The Symbiotic Relationship

In reality, the relationship between "doing" and "writing instructions" is symbiotic. Doers rely on clear instructions to learn, improve, and even innovate, while instructors often draw from the experience of doers to refine their teachings. Here’s how they complement each other:

1. Learning and Mastery: Written instructions, manuals, and guides are essential for passing on knowledge and skills. They serve as a foundation for learning, allowing novices to gain competency and experts to stay refreshed.

2. Standardization and Consistency: In many fields, especially those involving complex processes or safety protocols, written instructions ensure that tasks are performed correctly and consistently, reducing errors and increasing efficiency.

3. Innovation and Improvement: Those who write instructions often rely on feedback from doers to refine and improve their guidelines. This iterative process helps advance practices and create better systems.

Real-World Applications

From software development to cooking, construction to healthcare, the interplay between doing and instructing is evident:

1. Software Development: Programmers (doers) create applications based on specifications (instructions) developed by analysts or managers (instruction writers). The success of a project hinges on both roles working effectively together.

2. Cooking: A chef (doer) may follow a recipe (instructions) to create a dish, while a culinary expert or food writer (instruction writer) perfects the recipe based on trial and feedback.

3. Healthcare: Surgeons (doers) follow medical protocols (instructions) developed by researchers and medical boards (instruction writers), ensuring best practices in patient care.

A Balanced Perspective

While the quote might seem to belittle those who write instructions, it is essential to recognize the critical role they play. Writing clear, concise, and effective instructions is itself a skill that requires expertise. Moreover, many people who write instructions have been doers themselves and have transitioned to sharing their knowledge with others.

In this light, a more accurate and balanced version of the quote might be: "Those who can, do. Those who can also teach, write the instructions."

The saying "Those who can, do. Those who can't, write the instructions" offers a thought-provoking glimpse into the dynamics between action and instruction. However, it is crucial to appreciate the value of both roles. The best outcomes arise when doers and instructors collaborate, leveraging their respective skills to achieve excellence and innovation in their fields.

Whether we are the ones doing the work or the ones providing the guidance, each role is vital to the progress and success of our endeavors.