There is another key similarity between the architect and system analyst. Both must use modeling tools that are understandable by their clients and can be used as the basis for documenting future changes. I would like to briefly discuss some of the modeling tools available to the systems analyst. These tools range from full blown CASE tools from companies such as Bachman, Texas Instruments and Intersolv to relatively simple relational database design tools such as Asymetrix's Infomodeler. The dataflow diagram is a key tool for the systems analyst.
Dataflow diagrams consist of processes represented pictorially by bubbles.
Flows, shown as directed arrows between processes, represent the information processes require as input or generate as output. Data stores, shown by an ellipse or two parallel lines, represent aggregates of data that the system must remember for a time period. Typically stores represent files or databases. Terminators, shown by rectangles, represent the external entities with which the system communicates, for example, customers, other departments or other computer systems. Written process specifications and data dictionaries in turn detail in text what information is transformed and how it is transformed.