This paper proposes a systematic approach for the static output feedback control design for discrete-time uncertain linear systems. It is shown that if the open-loop system satisfies some particular structural conditions and the uncertainty has a specific structure, a static output feedback gain can be calculated easily, using a formula only involving the original system matrices. Among the conditions the system has to satisfy, the strongest one relies on a minimum phase argument. Square and nonsquare systems are considered. The performance problem through a quadratic criterion is also discussed (guaranteed cost control). (C) 2003 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.