Complex systems engineering from nano- to macro-scale

The design of complex systems to achieve desired outcomes-complex systems engineering-is achievable in numerous natural systems and in some systems of human construction. This paper concerns multi-agent complex systems that comprise a large number of autonomous, interacting elements. Emergence presents a rich variety of behaviours for the designer to use; however, the unpredictability of emergence is a barrier to conventional engineering methodology. By probing examples of engineered systems and looking for common features, a design methodology may be sought.