Information engineering, or data modeling, begins with the data entities and examines the relationships between data elements. Processes are derived from these data elements. Prototyping begins with the inputs and outputs of the process. Given the required information content for the user, this model then derives the data and processes needed to provide the content. This model can be very useful where the customer interface is critical.
Object modeling is a hybrid.
An object contains all of the data, logic and interface requirements in one atomic unit. Object modeling is based on the interrelationships between these self-contained islands of functionality. It is a decentralized process which stresses the complete reusability of the specific components for many business tasks. Data Modeling Entity-relationship diagrams are the basic tool of data modeling. The relationships between entities is a critical aspect.