1. Components: Systems are composed of individual parts or elements that interact with each other. These components can be physical objects, processes, or even abstract concepts.
2. Interconnections: The components within a system are not isolated but rather connected and influence each other. These interconnections can be direct or indirect, and they define how the system functions as a whole.
3. Purpose: Systems are designed or evolve to achieve a specific goal or objective. This purpose drives the interactions between components and determines the overall behavior of the system.
While these are three fundamental aspects of all systems, the specific nature and complexity of these characteristics can vary greatly depending on the system in question.