DFD Using a Case Tool:
Visible Analysts
Yong Choi
BPA
CSUB
CASE Systems:
Tools used as instruments to make modeling
methods, techniques, and procedures
operational.
Advantages of Using CASE
Tools during the Analysis Phase:
• More comprehensive and integrated recording of
investigation results.
• Uniform recording of analysis for all systems.
• Diagram display of analysis results in a form easily
explained to users.
• Easy navigation through analysis specifications.
• Easily modified entries during the iterative actions
of analysis.
CASE Tool Advantages (Cont)
• CASE tools check for compliance with specific
rules for modeling methods, such as balanced
I/O checks for DFD levels.
• CASE tools identify inconsistent entries for the
same or similar items in the dictionary, such as a
logical object defined differently on ERDs and
DFDs.
• Facilities for better maintenance of analysis
specifications.
CASE Tool Components:
• A&D workbench software to create
diagrams to illustrate analysis findings.
• Dictionary software to enter detailed
descriptions for analysis diagram
elements.
CASE Dictionary Descriptions:
• Preformatted screen data entry and reporting
specifications.
• More elaborate narrative explanations of analysis
results.
• Reductions in redundancy of analysis
specifications.
• Better integrated analysis specifications.
• A central repository for analysis documentation.
• More easily maintained documentation.
CASE Tools and JADS:
During JADs, analysts use CASE tools and
visual aid technologies, such as overhead
projector LCD panels, to provide a better
way to quickly create DFDs and obtain
user feedback regarding the process
model.
Use of DFDs in JADS:
• Create DFDs as users speak.
• Review and verify DFDs created during
pre-workshop activities or between JAD
workshops.
• Make real-time changes made to DFDs
as uses speak.
Visible Analyst CASE tool
Demonstration