The article substantiates the relevance of updating the categorical thesaurus of the theory of economic dynamics on the basis of modern methodology, which combines the cognitive potentials and tools of global evolutionism, the general theory of systems and synergy. In the context of the evolutionary approach, the authors provide the content and characteristics of the complex forms of economic system’ movement (self-organization, development / degradation, evolution / involution) and the accompanying qualitative changes (modifications, transformations, metamorphoses, architectural shifts) of economic reality. There are revealed the hierarchy of dynamic processes according to the degree of complexity and their interrelationships and principles of mutual transitions. Attention is focused on innovations and innovative changes, which, depending on the level (depth) of the implemented novelty, and the speed and scale of its diffusion, determine the trajectory of the economic system’ movement over time. Taking into account the time criterion, the authors systematize the signs of progressive and regressive economic dynamics. Noted the significant role of organizational and regulatory influences, primarily that of the innovation policy, for designing and constructing the expected future. A view is proposed to consider innovation policy as a system of measures aimed at the strategic management of economic genetics. The content of these measures consists in selective changes in inherited production and technological structures and reproductive cycles, as well as inherited models of the behavior of economic actors. The direction of selection, which represents a choice of priorities for innovative development is determined by the imperatives of self-preservation, effective self-realization and self-development of the economic system in a highly competitive environment.