IDEF0

[2] It was derived from the established graphic modeling language Structured Analysis and Design Technique (SADT) developed by Douglas T. Ross and SofTech, Inc.

IDEF0 should assist in organizing system analysis and promote effective communication between the analyst and the customer through simplified graphical devices".

IDEF0 is capable of graphically representing a wide variety of business, manufacturing and other types of enterprise operations to any level of detail.

The ICAM program identified the need for better analysis and communication techniques for people involved in improving manufacturing productivity.

The result of applying IDEF0 to a system is a model that consists of a hierarchical series of diagrams, text, and glossary cross-referenced to each other.

The two primary modeling components are: As shown by Figure 3 the position at which the arrow attaches to a box conveys the specific role of the interface.

Mechanism arrows that provide supporting means for performing the function join (point up to) the bottom of the box.

An example of a Top Level Context Diagram for an information system management process is shown in Figure 3.

An example of a derived diagram, called a “child” in IDEF0 terminology, for a life cycle function is shown in Figure 4.

This standard was based on the Air Force Wright Aeronautical Laboratories Integrated Computer-Aided Manufacturing (ICAM) Architecture from June 1981.