Rules are rooted in a current reality, the reality of the world as we know it and where we live. This world has become more and more complex, due to increasing globalization, new communication systems and other technological developments. Rules have followed this trend and have become more and more complex. We are thinking about multi-level regulations, about things -like Sarbanes Oxley or BASEL III or other financial regulations. At the same time we see that there is a limit to the complexity that we can handle, a point where things might get out of control. Environmental concerns , or the problems we have with the stability of our financial system are clear illustrations of this.

The same goes for regulations. The complexity of regulations also has its limits. More rules do not necessary lead to more effective control. To a certain point they do, but after that point they become counterproductive.

In the real world we see that people are looking for solutions to this increased complexity. They look for solutions on a human scale, for example they try to create new financial models such as micro-credits or they look for new agricultural models like community supported agriculture to solve problems in the food chain.

The question is : can we do the same for regulations? Can we find smallscale solutions to real problems ? New ways to deal with existing mechanisms? Come up with smart solutions for citizens and businesses, solutions that restore confidence in government and encourage entrepreneurs to do good business?