06-10-2016, 10:39 AM
A data flow diagram (DFD) is a graphical representation of the "flow" of data through an information system, modelling its process aspects. A DFD is often used as a preliminary step to create an overview of the system, which can later be elaborated. DFDs can also be used for the visualization of data processing (structured design).
A DFD shows what kind of information will be input to and output from the system, where the data will come from and go to, and where the data will be stored. It does not show information about the timing of process or information about whether processes will operate in sequence or in parallel (which is shown on a flowchart).
Larry Constantine, the original developer of structured design, based on Martin and Estrin's "Data Flow Graph" model of computation.
Starting in the 1970s, data flow diagrams (DFD) became a popular way to visualize the major steps and data involved in software system processes. DFDs were usually used to show data flow in a computer system, although they could in theory be applied to business process modeling. DFD were useful to document the major data flows or to explore a new high-level design in terms of data flow.
A DFD shows what kind of information will be input to and output from the system, where the data will come from and go to, and where the data will be stored. It does not show information about the timing of process or information about whether processes will operate in sequence or in parallel (which is shown on a flowchart).
Larry Constantine, the original developer of structured design, based on Martin and Estrin's "Data Flow Graph" model of computation.
Starting in the 1970s, data flow diagrams (DFD) became a popular way to visualize the major steps and data involved in software system processes. DFDs were usually used to show data flow in a computer system, although they could in theory be applied to business process modeling. DFD were useful to document the major data flows or to explore a new high-level design in terms of data flow.