Complex Systems Innovation

It's somewhat interesting to see the different interpretations of "complex systems" used in design & engineering. This paper by Bar-Yam(pdf) from the NE Complex Systems Institute provides points for analysis and discussion.
Here I will only say that complexity in design need not be limited to "large-scale projects" such as the design & construction of the Oasis of the Seas (the largest cruise ship in history). I'd actually say that there is little complexity in such projects; arguably lots of difficulties (complicated) but not so complex since the result is by no means emergent, but entirely planned and centrally coordinated in pre-defined hierarchies, etc.
Instead, I would argue that the design of a 'simple' ceramic pot made by a handcraft expert can be seen as a complex design project. Perhaps it involves simple materials, simple tools, simple processes, but it does contain a deep and wide scope of cultural, social and historical meanings that make it an irreducible system.

Further reading on Complex Systems Engineering: http://necsi.org/cxworld/engineering.html