ASSIGNMENT-6
1. Introduction to DFD
A Data Flow Diagram (DFD) is a graphical representation of the flow of data within a
system. It illustrates how data moves between processes, data stores, external entities, and
data flows. DFDs are widely used in software engineering and system analysis to model
information systems.
Key Characteristics of DFD:
• Visual Representation: Uses symbols to depict data movement.
• Hierarchical Structure: Can be decomposed into levels (Level 0, Level 1, etc.).
• Process-Oriented: Focuses on how data is processed rather than control flow.
• No Time Dependency: Does not show the order of operations (unlike flowcharts).
2. Components of a DFD
• A DFD consists of four main components:
Symbol Name Description
○ Process Represents a function that transforms input data into output data.
Shows the movement of data between processes, stores, and
→ Data Flow
external entities.
〓 Data Store A repository where data is stored (e.g., database, file).
External A source or destination of data outside the system (e.g., user,
□
Entity another system).
3. Levels of DFD
DFDs are structured in levels of abstraction:
Level 0 (Context Diagram)
• The highest-level DFD.
• Shows the entire system as a single process with external entities.
• Example:
o System: "Parking Management System"
o External Entities: "Customer," "Admin"
o Data Flows: "Payment Request," "Slot Assignment"
Level 1 (Expanded View)
• Breaks down the Level 0 process into sub-processes.
• Example:
o Processes: "Payment Processing," "Slot Allocation," "Report Generation"
o Data Stores: "Parking Database"
Level 2 (Detailed Processes)
• Further decomposes Level 1 processes into finer details.
• Example:
o "Payment Processing" → "Validate Payment," "Update Payment Status"
5. Advantages of DFD
• Easy to Understand: Visual representation simplifies system analysis.
• Improves Communication: Helps stakeholders (developers, clients) understand
dataflow
• Identifies Redundancies: Highlights unnecessary data flows or processes.
• Supports Modular Design: Allows decomposition into smaller, manageable parts.
DFD FOR LAB ACTIVITY MANAGEMENT SYSTEM
LEVEL O DFD :-
User(Student,Instructor,Technician,Admin)
RequestsServices ProvidesServices
LabActivityManagementSystem
RetrievesData StoresData
Database
LEVEL 1 DFD :-
LEVEL 2 DFD :-
NAME : MANASWINI
MOHAPATRA
SIC: 22BCEE69
ROLL NO: 16
GROUP: A1
BRANCH :CEN