by Fred Nwaozor
If you desire to model a system, either conceptual or real-life, you must conceive a picture on your mind.
Then, you proceed to the consequential measure towards arriving at a logical conclusion.
If you intend to develop a patent in the process, you must concentrate mainly on the gap, having studied the existing systems.
These are the six basic process-steps you ought to focus on, to attain the height you desire while you embark on a modelling journey.
1. Define the problem clearly: You have to state what the proposed model stands to achieve in the long run.
2. Identify system boundaries:Try to ascertain what is inside and outside the conceived system.
3. List all data and stakeholders: Take time to outline all the required data, such as actors, inputs, and outputs.
4. Choose the right modelling approach: You are expected to select the suitable design methodology, to include UML, SAD, as well as CASE tools.
5. Develop high-level models first: Analyze the system using top-down procedure, starting from abstraction to simpler elements; Context → Functional → Structural. Start from the overall picture, not the details.
Hence, first draw a Context Diagram showing the system as a single block and its interaction with the immediate environment (inputs/outputs). Then, move to Functional Models (e.g DFD Level 0, Use Cases) that break the system into major functions. Finally, proceed to Structural Models (Block/component diagrams) showing how the internal components are organized and connected. This approach prevents confusion, keeps you focused on purpose before complexity, and ensures every detail you add later fits correctly into the bigger framework.
6. Refine into detailed model: Endeavour to assemble your details into a well-detailed and self-explanatory system, showcasing the algorithms and data flow, to display possible interactions.
The highlighted steps ensure clarity, structure, and accuracy from the beginning.
Nwaozor, tech expert & analyst, writes via frednwaozor@gmail.com
N.B The image in this analysis has no connection to the topic and not credited to the author
RostrumNews
