IDEF

Summary

IDEFIntegration Definition (Integration Definition) is a family of languages, suited to modelling data exchanges as part of systems or software engineering.

Example

Applies when

You want a graphical representation of the activities and data transfers involved in a system, including input, output and associated control. Ideal for large distributed systems, where understanding the flow of data is important. Has been applied to support the optimisation of manufacturing process.

Advantages

Easy to understand and interpret, based upon an underpinning mathematical rigour. The documentation is open and available, the technique is independent of technology and the domain of application.

Disadvantages

Can get confusing and complex. The tools used to generate IDEFIntegration Definition representations may not be integrated with other system or software development techniques. To some extent, IDEFIntegration Definition has been superseded by more recent and widely adopted languages (UML).