Handout 3c Data Flow Diagram
Handout 3c Data Flow Diagram
DIAGRAM
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
1
• Data flow diagrams visually represent systems and processes
that would be hard to describe in a chunk of text.
• You can use these diagrams to map out an existing system and
make it better or to plan out a new system for implementation.
• Visualizing each element makes it easy to identify inefficiencies
and produce the best possible system.
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Logical Data Flow Diagram
3
• Both physical and logical data flow diagrams can describe the
same information flow. In coordination they provide more detail
than either diagram would independently. As you decide which
to use, keep in mind that you may need both.
4
DATA FLOW DIAGRAM LEVEL 0
• Level 1 DFDs are still a general overview, but they go into more
detail than a context diagram.
• In a level 1 data flow diagram, the single process node from the
context diagram is broken down into subprocesses.
• As these processes are added, the diagram will need additional
data flows and data stores to link them together.
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DATA FLOW DIAGRAM LEVEL 2
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HOW TO CREATE A DATA FLOW DIAGRAM
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4. Expand to a level 2+ DFD
To enhance the detail of your data flow diagram, follow the same process as
in step 3.
The processes in your level 1 DFD can be broken down into more specific
subprocesses.
Once again, ensure you add any necessary data stores and flows—at this
point you should have a fairly detailed breakdown of your system. To
progress beyond a level 2 data flow diagram, simply repeat this process.
Stop once you’ve reached a satisfactory level of detail.
5. Confirm the accuracy of your final diagram
When your diagram is completely drawn, walk through it.
Pay close attention to the flow of information: does it make sense? Are all
necessary data stores included? By looking at your final diagram, other
parties should be able to understand the way your system functions.
Before presenting your final diagram, check with co-workers to ensure your
diagram is comprehensible.