And I think this is because the ideal complex system is one where all the subsystems and parts combine to produce adequate reliability. Exponentiation means it

And I think this is because the ideal complex system is one where all the subsystems and parts combine to produce adequate reliability. Exponentiation means it is more efficient to start by far exceeding the required reliability and then optimizing the most expensive subsystems/parts. It is less efficient and far more frustrating if multiple things have to be improved to meet requirements.