Development and Optimization of Large System Model with Grade

Abstract

This paper concerns methodology for the development of large socio-technical systems on the basis of GRADE (Graphical Reengineering Analysis and Design Environment) tool.* GRADE toolset and methodology supports all stages of system life cycle—from problem definition and requirement gathering to implementation and maintenance. The paper gives an overview on the GRADE tools and methodology and concentrates mainly on the transition from object view (in a form of object hierarchy) to the Business Model of the system. System description and requirement specification in GRADE are represented as a hierarchy of Active Objects (producers of results), Passive Objects (results produced) and Activities (Process Objects performed by the Active Objects in order to manipulate with Passive Objects and produce expected results). Each object can have also numeric attributes describing their physical properties. This enables evaluation of reactive and dynamic characteristics of the system, as well as the simulation and optimization of system. Business model in GRADE can be represented by several alternative diagramming techniques (Object hierarchy, Task Communication Diagram, Process Diagram and/or Event driven Process Chain).

An algorithm for generation of Business Model in graphical form from the Requirement Specification in a form of Object hierarchy is proposed. This algorithm can produce different possible versions of business processes therefore the question of optimal (more preferable) from structure point of view process structures is discussed. The same approach can be used also to decompose existing business processes and create new alternative versions. The generation algorithm can be used effectively for optimization of business processes in conjunction with GRADE simulation facilities. The generation algorithm converts the object hierarchy into graphically represented process map. Principles of this algorithm can be used also for other Business Process modeling and/or CASE environments in order to obtain linear (sequential) process description from structure charts, function trees or other forms of object hierarchy definition.

GRADE tool is available for educational institutions at S20 from Infologistik, email 100073.27772@com-puserve.com or (206) 990 1079. System requirements are 486 PC, 8-16 MB RAM, Windows 3.x or Win95.