B-nodes: a proposed new method for modelling information systems technology
Document Type
Conference Proceeding
Faculty
Faculty of Computing, Health and Science
School
School of Computer and Information Science
RAS ID
1813
Abstract
There are many rapid developments in the technologies upon which information systems are based. In order to help describe and define these technologies there exist a wide variety of modeling techniques. However this wide range of techniques is in itself problematic and it is recognized that a new higher level of abstraction is needed. A new high-level modeling technique is proposed that can be used to control the technical complexity of information systems technologies. This new method, called B-Nodes, is a simple, diagrammatic, and easy to use method. The model employs abstraction and hence it is independent of underlying technologies. It is therefore applicable not to current and old technologies but is likely to be valid for future technological developments. It is a scalable modeling method that can be potentially used for both small systems (e.g. a PC) and a global information structure. It allows recursive decomposition that allows detail to be controlled. The use of fundamental units allows other more meaningful units to be derived. Significantly therefore the derived units may be used to more accurately specify hardware performance specifications. The model has been successfully used as the pedagogical framework for teaching computer and network technology. Results to date indicate it can be used to model the modules within a PC (microprocessor, hard disc drive etc), a PC, a Local Area Network and an e-commerce web site.
Comments
Maj, S. P., & Veal, D. (2001). B-nodes: a proposed new method for modeling information systems technology. In Computing And Information Technologies: Exploring Emerging Technologies (pp. 359-368).