Chapter 5, Problem 1Q

Program Plan Intro

Explanation of the concept of Data and Process Modeling and the tools for it.

Explanation of Solution

Data and Process Modeling is a way of developing a graphical model that shows how a system converts data into valuable information. The result of such modeling is a logical model that provides support for business operations and ensures that user’s needs are fulfilled.

The three different graphical tools used in Data and Process Modeling are explained as below:

Data Flow Diagrams: The data flow diagrams show the movement of data through an information system, but it does not show the processing steps. Different symbols are associated with data flow diagrams that makes a logical model and explains what the system does and not how a system works. The four basic DFDs symbols represent the processes involved in a system, data storage, flow of data and entities.

Object Modeling: It is another technique used for data and process modeling. Object modeling uses the concept of object-oriented analysis that describes an information system with the identification of things called as objects. In that case, an object represents an event, place, transaction or a person. The result of Object-oriented analysis forms an object model that shows an information system in the form of objects. For example, an information system for a doctor appointment in a clinic will represent doctor, patient and clinic as objects.

Entity Relationship diagram: This is another technique for Data and Process Modeling in which the models are developed with the help of a relationship in the entities. Here, the entities are considered as objects that represent an event, place, transaction or a person.