Structural Changes Viewpoint

This viewpoint provides the instructions to create the Structural Changes View in a System Description.

The view provides insight into the dynamics of the system-of-interest in use or operation of a specific configuration of system elements and interfaces.

The models provide a way to visualise systemic properties such as performance variables over time.

The models also give insight into the various state changes and the routine operations and development operations that are visible in the system-of-interest

The dynamic nature of a system-of-interest is important to understand both in the early stages of understanding or development as well as in the actual use or operation of the system-of-interest.

Typically the following models would help describe behaviour or structural change:

• Sequence Diagrams (UML)
• State Machine Diagrams (UML)
• Activity Diagrams (UML)
• Causal Loop Diagram (CLD)

In addition, many mathematical models apply:

• Transfer Functions
• State Space Models
• Markov Chain (probability of state change)
• Monte Carlo Methods (simulation based upon probabilities)

• Identify the models to create.
• Create the models
• Review the models

• Ensure that all elements in models are contained in a model repository and defined only once.

State any references or people that have helped to define this viewpoint.

Provide notes and background information to track any changes or other information.