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A defining feature of complex adaptive systems is their tendency to experience unpredictable behavior. This unpredictability arises from the interactions of numerous independent agents within the system, each of which can adapt and respond to changes in the environment. Because these systems are composed of many interconnected and interdependent components, even small changes in one part can lead to significant and often unforeseen consequences throughout the system.

In contrast to simple systems that can be more easily predicted and managed, complex adaptive systems are characterized by their dynamic nature, where outcomes are not strictly predetermined or linear. As a result, stakeholders in such systems must embrace flexibility and adaptability, as the unfolding behavior can lead to emergent properties that are difficult to anticipate based on initial conditions or simple inputs. This unpredictability is essential for understanding how complex adaptive systems function, particularly in agile environments where innovation and rapid response to change are critical.