Function model

A function model is a structured representation of the functions, activities or processes within the modeled system or subject area. 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
• Function representation
• Polynomial function model
• Rational function models