How to Create a Functional Flow Block Diagram

Functional Flow Block Diagram (FFBD) is one of the classic business process modeling methodology, that is widely used in systems engineering. It is represented as a multilevel, time-sequenced, step-by-step diagram, that illustrates the processes flowing into the functional blocks and circuits of equipment. The modeling of the business process enables a description of the logical relationship of all components of the business process from its start to completion. It is very important to use a certified notation system — Business Process Model and Notation (BPMN) to describe the steps of business processes. This way, all process participants can observe the interrelations and proceedings that happen within a business process.

ConceptDraw DIAGRAM makes drawing BPMN diagram simple than ever. The Classic Business Process Modeling solution extends ConceptDraw DIAGRAM with a set of 5 library that contains 88 vector shapes that can be used when representing the transferring of data, documents, and tasks during a performance of a business process. This article uses the example Functional Flow Block diagram to explain what you need to get started designing a business process model using the Classic Business Process Modeling solution.

1. Run ConceptDraw DIAGRAM.
2. Select the Classic Business Process Modeling solution on the solutions panel and click the libraries preview to reveal them on the Library panel.
3. Start with rectangular nodes representing functions. Click on a library object and then click on the document, at the place you want it to be placed. Add a description. Select the object and type the text.

4. Circular nodes and branching structures represent control constructs — the building blocks of behavior.

5. As a function completes execution, flow of control proceeds along the branch lines to the next function or control construct.

6. You can extend the standard object libraries with new objects by customizing any item from any library and assigning it with Rapid Draw features. The Rapid Draw is an automatic drawing system intends significantly reduce the time of creating flowcharts and diagrams that consist from typical entities. Using the Rapid Draw arrows you can quickly create new composite object.

Result: The business process modeling is an effective way to search the ways of optimization an organization's activity, elimination of risks and effectiveness improvement.