IDEF1 Information Modeling

The IDEF1, Information Modeling Method, derives its foundations from three primary sources: The Entity-Link-Key-Attribute (ELKA) method developed by Hughes Aircraft Co. , the Entity-Relationship (ER) method proposed by Peter Chen, and Codd’s Relational Model. The original intent of IDEF1 was to capture what information exists or should be managed about objects falling within the scope of an enterprise. Thus, the IDEF1 perspective of an information system is one which includes not only the automated component, or the computer, but also includes humans, filing cabinets, telephones, etc. A design goal for IDEF1 was that it not be a database design method. At the time of the IDEF1 development, it was the opinion of the database community that what was needed was a way for organizations to analyze and clearly state their information resource management needs and requirements. This was the motivation for the development of IDEF1.