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Data Flow Diagram FAQs

A data flow diagram (DFD) is a graphical representation that illustrates how data flows within a system or process. It shows how data enters, is processed, and exits.

Key components include external entities (sources/destinations of data), processes (transformations of data), data stores (where data is held), and data flows (the movement of data).

DFDs are used to visualize and understand system requirements, identify inefficiencies, communicate system logic clearly, and document information flow for development and analysis.

DFDs come in different levels: Context Diagram , which shows the entire system as a single high-level process, Level 0 Diagram, which is a more detailed version of the Context Diagram, and lower-level DFDs (Level 1, Level 2) that break down processes into more granular detail.

By visually mapping data movement and transformations, DFDs help stakeholders grasp complex business processes, identify data dependencies, and streamline operations.

Benefits include improved communication, clear system documentation, easier identification of system flaws or redundancies, and a structured approach to system design and analysis.