< jargon , abuse > The result of adding new features to a program or system to the point where the benefit of the new features is outweighed by the extra resources consumed ( RAM , disk space or performance) and complexity of use. Software bloat is an instance of Parkinson's Law: resource requirements expand to consume the resources available. Causes of software bloat include second-system effect and creeping featuritis . Commonly cited examples include Unix's " ls (1)" command, the X Window System , BSD , Missed'em-five , OS/2 and any Microsoft product.
[ Jargon File ]
(1995-10-16)