Adaptivity in Networked Complex Systems

The fields of Complex Adaptive Systems and Network Science are both important in producing agile forces for 21 st century environments. Complex Adaptive Systems theory tells us that agility requires the ability to adapt at different timescales and levels. These levels range from the tactical level to the levels of doctrine change and platform acquisition. Network Science identifies the key attributes for networks underlying agile systems: first, a low average distance, and second, robustness through multiple independent pathways. This paper illustrates these principles with a simple simulation model of collaborative problemsolving. Agents in the model attempt to solve mathematical problems by exchanging information through a network. As the problems alter, the model demonstrates that larger environmental changes require greater degrees of adaptivity, and shows the value of efficient networks. The model also indicates a synergistic benefit, where fast networks enhance adaptivity. This provides a useful lesson for the designers of Defence systems.