Function model

A function model or "functional model" is a structured representation of the functions, activities or processes within the modeled system or subject area. [http://www.itl.nist.gov/fipspubs/idef02.doc FIPS Publication 183] released of IDEFØ December 1993 by the Computer Systems Laboratory of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST).] In systems engineering and software engineering a function model is created with a functional modeling perspective.

A functional modeling perspective concentrates on describing the dynamic process. The main concept in this modeling perspective is the process, this could be a function, transformation, activity, action, task etc. A well-known example of a modeling language employing this perspective is data flow diagrams.

The perspective uses four symbols to describe a process, these being:
*Process: Illustrates transformation from input to output.
*Store: Data-collection or some sort of material.
*Flow: Movement of data or material in the process.
*External Entity: External to the modeled system, but interacts with it.

Now, with these symbols, a process can be represented as a network of these symbols. This decomposed process is a DFD, data flow diagram.

In Dynamic Enterprise Modeling a devision is made in the Control model, Function Model, Process model and Organizational model.

See also

* Bus Functional Model
* Functional flow block diagram
* Function representation
* N2 Chart
* Polynomial function model
* Rational function models

References