Physical Data Flow Diagram

• An implementation dependent view of the current system, showing what task are carried out and how they are performed.
• Physical characteristics include

-      Names of people

-      Forms and document Name

-      Names of department

-      Master and transaction files

-      Equipments and devices used

-      Locations

• Most comprehensive and useful approach to developing an accurate and complete description of current system begins with the development of a physical DFD.
• The use of physical DFD is desirable for 3 reasons
• Firstly it is easier to describe the interaction between physical components then it is to understand the policies that are used to manage the applications.
• Secondly physical DFD are useful for communication with users. User’s relate easily to people , locations, and documents since they work with each entity daily. User’s can easily point out when a step is incorrect or missing.
• Third they provide a way to validate or verify the users current view of the system. With the way it is actually operating if there are differences they will be noted and discussed.