 - IDEF (for Integrated Definition) is a group of modeling methods that can be used to describe operations in an enterprise. IDEF was created by the United States Air Force and is now being developed by Knowledge Based Systems. Originally developed for the manufacturing environment, IDEF methods have been adapted for wider use and for software development in general.
Sixteen methods, from IDEF0 to IDEF14 (and including IDEF1X), are each designed to capture a particular type of information through modeling processes. IDEF methods are used to create graphical representations of various systems, analyze the model, create a model of a desired version of the system, and to aid in the transition from one to the other. IDEF is sometimes used along with gap analysis.
The following table lists the IDEF methods either current or in development. IDEF0 through IDEF4 are the methods most commonly used.
| IDEF METHODS |
|---|
| IDEF0 | Function Modeling |
| IDEF1 | Information Modeling |
| IDEF1X | Data Modeling |
| IDEF2 | Simulation Model Design |
| IDEF3 | Process Description Capture |
| IDEF4 | Object-Oriented Design |
| IDEF5 | Ontology Description Capture |
| IDEF6 | Design Rationale Capture |
| IDEF7 | Information System Auditing |
| IDEF8 | User Interface Modeling |
| IDEF9 | Scenario-Driven IS Design |
| IDEF10 | Implementation Architecture Modeling |
| IDEF11 | Information Artifact Modeling |
| IDEF12 | Organization Modeling |
| IDEF13 | Three Schema Mapping Design |
| IDEF14 | Network Design |
As an example of the process, IDEF0 methods are used to model the functions of an enterprise, creating a graphical model that shows: what controls the function, who performs it, what resources are used in carrying it out, what it produces, and what relationships it has to other functions.
Also see Unified Modeling Language.
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| LAST UPDATED: |
05 Jun 2002
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