The simplified DES (Data Encryption Standard) implementation works by breaking the input text into fixed-size blocks (8 bits each) and applying a series of transformations using a key. Each block undergoes an XOR operation with the key bits, effectively scrambling the data. Think of it as mixing your message with a secret pattern, where each bit of your message is combined with a corresponding bit from your key. While this is a highly simplified version, the actual DES uses complex permutations, substitutions, and multiple rounds of transformation.