What is a data flow chart? What role does it play in system analysis?

Data flow diagram is an analysis tool, which comprehensively describes the data flow of the system. The whole picture of information in the whole system is described by a set of symbols in the data flow diagram, which comprehensively reflects the flow, processing and storage of information in the system.

Its function in system analysis lies in that it expresses the logical function of the system, the logical flow direction of the data in the system and the logical conversion process in a graphical way from the perspective of data transmission and processing by using structured system analysis methods.

Abstraction and generality are two main characteristics of data flow graph. Abstraction means that the data flow chart removes the specific organization, workplace and material flow, leaving only the storage, flow, use and processing of information and data. Universality means that the data flow diagram links the processing processes of various services in the system to form a whole.

Extended data

Data flow chart history:

In 1970s, Larry Constantine, the original developer of structural design, put forward a practical data flow diagram based on Martin and Estrin's "data flow diagram" calculation model.

Data flow diagram (DFD) has quickly become the main step and popular method of data in the process of visual software system. DFD is usually used to display data streams in computer systems, although they can be applied to business process modeling in theory. DFD helps to record major data streams or explore new advanced designs in data streams.

Baidu Encyclopedia-Data Flow Chart

Baidu Encyclopedia-Data Flow Diagram