The Role of Diagrams in Information Systems Analysis

Abstract

Diagrams play an important but often overlooked role in the process of information systems analysis (ISA). The type of diagrams that feature predominantly in traditional computer systems analysis is that of some form of data flow diagram that is an integral part of a structured computer systems analysis and design method. In this paper the roles of modelling and diagrams during the ISA process are explored. It is suggested that an awareness of the implications of diagrams and diagramming techniques is especially important where the ISA approach adopted emphasises the need to learn about the domain and problem situation as a precursor to analysis and the consideration of possible technical components. In the next section a brief review of the argument for adopting an ISA approach that supports problem appreciation is offered as a context for discussing the use of diagrams in ISA.