The evolution of technological systems follows a recurring pattern: initially, complexity increases with the introduction of new functions and improvements; subsequently, the system is simplified to optimize performance, reduce costs, and enhance usability. This principle, extensively studied in TRIZ (Theory of Inventive Problem Solving), serves as a strategic key to understanding and anticipating the future of innovation.
The Mono-Bi-Poly-System Evolution
One of the main technological evolution patterns follows this sequence:
- Mono-system: A system is created with a single main function.
- Bi-system: The system evolves with the integration of a function complementary to the original system.
- Poly-system: Continuous evolution leads to the coexistence of multiple functions within a single device.
- New mono-system: The fusion and optimization of functions give rise to a new, simplified system compared to the poly-system, but it integrates all its functions and is ready for a new phase of evolution.
This pattern applies to various industries and can be observed in numerous products.
Examples of Technological Evolution
1. Biological Evolution
The evolution of species is characterized by increasing genetic and morphological complexity. However, this process is not linear. For example, some marine species and many parasites have undergone structural simplification over time, losing unnecessary organs and functions while focusing on essential traits for their specific lifestyle. This phenomenon demonstrates how evolution can lead to increasing complexity followed by adaptive simplification.
2. Technology and Computing
In computing, the development of software and hardware often follows a path of growing complexity, with the addition of new features and improvements. Later, through optimization processes, systems tend to be simplified to enhance performance and usability. A clear example is operating systems: they initially accumulate numerous functions and applications, but over time, unnecessary elements are removed, and the user interface is refined to make the system more intuitive and efficient.
3. Social and Regulatory Organization
A similar process can be observed in social structures and regulations. Societies tend to develop increasingly complex legislative systems to address emerging needs and challenges. However, excessive complexity can lead to inefficiencies and difficulties in application. As a result, periodic regulatory simplifications are implemented to streamline legal frameworks, eliminating obsolete or redundant laws and making regulations clearer and more accessible.
Combining Different Evolutionary Trends
Technological evolution does not follow a single path but can combine multiple principles to maximize performance.
1. Autonomous Vehicles
Traditional cars integrated electronic systems for stability control and ABS (bi-system). The addition of driver assistance features, such as sensors and cameras, led to a poly-system. The next step aims for fully autonomous driving—a new mono-system where the user no longer needs to intervene manually.
2. The Evolution of Washing Machines
Early washing machines required manual operations for each washing phase. The introduction of timers and spin cycles led to a bi-system. The addition of automatic programs and load sensors resulted in modern poly-system washing machines. Today, with the integration of artificial intelligence, new washing machines recognize fabric types and optimize the washing process, reducing operational complexity.
Practical Application: Designing the Future
Understanding this trend helps companies anticipate future product evolutions. If a mono-system exists today, we can ask:
- What complementary functions can be integrated?
- What would a potential bi-system or poly-system look like?
- How could it be simplified into a new mono-system?
This perspective allows for strategic innovation management, minimizing errors and increasing the efficiency of creative processes.
Conclusion
The increase in complexity followed by simplification is a universal principle applicable to every field of innovation. By analyzing the Mono-Bi-Poly-System path, we can more effectively design future products, improving their efficiency, usability, and sustainability.
