How to Create Data Flow Diagram (DFD)?

Want to create a Data Flow Diagram (DFD)? We will provide you with an introduction to DFD and let you know how you can create DFD with our DFD software.

How to create data flow diagram

What is Data Flow Diagram?

Data flow diagram (DFD) is a diagram being used frequently in software design. It visually represents the flow of data throughout processes in a given system. DFD shows the kind of information that will be input to and output from processes as well as where the data will be stored.

Data Flow Diagram example

Purpose of Data Flow Diagrams

A typical information system involves processing a lot of information and processes. The purpose of Data Flow Diagrams is to view systems as a whole with its scopes and boundaries while it illustrates the movement of information between components. The focus of DFD is on the flow of data throughout the system, not process flow. DFD allows readers to easily see how the system will operate by knowing the kind and flow of information involved.

DFD Types

There are two main types of DFD: Physical and Logical.

Physical DFD: Focuses on the physical aspect of the system by showing “how” the system will be implemented

Logical DFD: Focuses on a higher-level view of the system and “what” it will achieve.

Data Flow Diagram Levels

Unlike other diagrams, DFD can be drawn at different levels, based on the purpose they are drawn to serve.

Context Data Flow Diagram

Context DFD is sometimes referred to as level 0 DFD. It’s the top-level diagram among all, which illustrates the entire system in its relationship to any external entities.

Data Flow Diagram Level 1

Level 1 DFD is the level under the context-DFD. It illustrates the main functions within the system. Level 1 breakdown the context level by including more details. It represents how the data enters and exits the system, where it is stored and how the basic processes convert it from one form to another.

Data Flow Diagram Level 2

Level 2 DFD (or further) goes into deeper detail. It shows how the data flows within the main process of the system.

You should create as many levels of DFD as you need until the desired level of detail is met.

How to Draw Data Flow Diagram?

  1. Select Diagram > New from the main menu.
  2. In the New Diagram window, select Data Flow Diagram and click Next.
    Select Data Flow Diagram (DFD)
  3. Select an existing DFD template, or select Blank to create from scratch. Click Next.
  4. Enter the diagram name and click OK.
  5. Drag and drop shapes from the diagram toolbar.
    Create data flow diagram
  6. Use the Resource Catalog to complete the diagram. Move your mouse pointer over a shape. Press on the resource icon and drag it out, and then select the shape to create. A connector will be automatically created for you.
    Create data flow diagram with Resource Catalog
  7. When you finished, you can export the diagram as an image (JPG, PNG, PDF, SVG, etc) and share it with your friends or co-workers (Project > Export > Active Diagram as Image…).

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