Dataflow

What Does Dataflow Mean?

Dataflow is the movement of data through a system comprised of software, hardware or a combination of both.

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Dataflow is often defined using a model or diagram in which the entire process of data movement is mapped as it passes from one component to the next within a program or a system, taking into consideration how it changes form during the process.

Techopedia Explains Dataflow

Dataflow design is done through specialized software called dataflow diagrams (DFD) which are specially designed to graphically map how data is transmitted throughout a system.

The dataflow diagram is important in the architectural design of a system since it defines what kind of data is needed in order to start or complete a specific process.

Using a dataflow diagram is part of the dataflow modeling process.

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Margaret Rouse

Margaret Rouse is an award-winning technical writer and teacher known for her ability to explain complex technical subjects to a non-technical, business audience. Over the past twenty years her explanations have appeared on TechTarget websites and she's been cited as an authority in articles by the New York Times, Time Magazine, USA Today, ZDNet, PC Magazine and Discovery Magazine.Margaret's idea of a fun day is helping IT and business professionals learn to speak each other’s highly specialized languages. If you have a suggestion for a new definition or how to improve a technical explanation, please email Margaret or contact her…