Purpose This paper provides reviews of distributed computing initiatives and developments in systems and cybernetics. They include: brain fingerprinting, complex and systems research, cognition of animals, and innovative systems. Design/methodology/approach A general review and survey of selected research and development topics. Findings Illustrates the multi‐ and trans‐disciplinary nature of cybernetics and systems in order to further research and development. Practical implications The choice of topics enables researchers to be aware of current trends in their fields and gives readers an overview of a variety of important areas. Originality/value Reviews from a worldwide database of: current reports and opinions to introduce new perspectives in research and development.