Computer-Based Systems:
Hierarchy and Modeling
by Mahalakshmi S
Introduction to Computer-Based Systems (CBS)
A Computer-Based System (CBS) integrates hardware, software, human users, and data to perform predefined tasks and meet
organizational goals. It's a fundamental concept in modern technology, enabling complex operations across various industries.
Core Elements of CBS Real-World Examples
Hardware: Physical devices like CPU, memory, sensors. • Automated Railway Ticketing System
Software: Operating systems, applications, embedded code. • Online Banking Portal
People: End users, developers, technicians, stakeholders. • Self-Driving Car System
Data: Raw facts processed into information. • E-commerce Platforms (Amazon, Flipkart)
Procedures: Protocols, manuals, user guides, business logic.
Characteristics of Computer-Based Systems
Interactive
Responds to user input, providing a dynamic experience.
Integrated
Components work together seamlessly to achieve system goals.
Automated
Performs tasks with minimal human intervention, increasing efficiency.
Data-Driven
Uses input and stored data for informed decision-making.
Scalable
Can grow in functionality and size to meet evolving demands.
System Engineering: An
Overview
System engineering is a multidisciplinary approach to designing,
developing, and managing complex systems across their life cycles. It's
crucial for handling large-scale complexity, ensuring system reliability, and
balancing cost, performance, and schedule.
System Engineering Hierarchy
System Engineering decomposes a system into smaller, manageable parts in a hierarchical format, promoting clarity and modular
design. This structured approach ensures that each level of the system is well-defined and integrated.
Unit Level
1 Functions, methods, procedures (e.g., validateUser(), calculateBalance())
Component/Module Level
2 Software programs or hardware components (e.g., Login Module, Account Verification Module)
Subsystem Level
3 Logical grouping of related functions (e.g., UI Subsystem, Transaction
Management Subsystem)
System Level
4 Represents the entire computer-based system, defining overall
goals, interfaces, and operations (e.g., Online Banking System)
The System Engineering Lifecycle
Feasibility Study
Requirements Analysis
Assess technical, economic, and
Understand stakeholder needs and operational viability.
define system objectives. 1 2
System Design
Develop high-level architecture and
Maintenance 7 3 detailed modeling.
Ongoing bug fixes, upgrades, and support.
Implementation
Develop and integrate system components.
6 4
Deployment
Testing and Verification
Install and launch the system for 5
Ensure correctness and performance
operational use.
against requirements.
System Modeling: Visualizing Complexity
System modeling uses graphical and mathematical tools to represent a system's structure, behavior, and functionality. This process is vital for reducing ambiguity, identifying
errors early, providing clear documentation, and facilitating communication among stakeholders.
Why Model a System?
• Reduce ambiguity in design
• Identify errors early
• Provide comprehensive documentation
• Facilitate stakeholder communication
Types of System Models
Structural Models
Describe the organization of a system (e.g., UML Class Diagram, ER Diagram).
Behavioral Models
Describe system dynamics and workflows (e.g., State Machine Diagram,
Sequence Diagram).
Functional Models
Represent data flow and transformations (e.g., Data Flow Diagrams
(DFD), Activity Diagram).
Physical Models
Represent real-world architecture (e.g., Deployment Diagram, Network
Topology).
Unified Modeling Language (UML)
UML is a standardized general-purpose modeling language in the field of software engineering that is intended to provide a standard way to visualize the design of a system.
Key UML Diagrams
Use Case Diagram: Shows user interaction with the system.
Class Diagram: Shows system’s classes and relationships.
Sequence Diagram: Describes message flow in time sequence.
Activity Diagram: Models workflow or business process.
Deployment Diagram: Shows hardware & software mapping.
Key Benefits & Summary Recap
The system engineering hierarchy and modeling are crucial for effective system development.
Improved Clarity & Reduced Complexity Enhanced Collaboration & Early Issue
Identification
Breaking down systems into manageable parts makes
them easier to understand and develop. Visual models facilitate teamwork and help catch errors
before implementation, saving time and resources.
Better Documentation & Maintenance System Validation & Testing Support
Clear models serve as valuable documentation, Models provide a basis for rigorous testing, ensuring the
simplifying future updates and support. system meets its requirements.
