An interactive graphics editor with integrated data dictionary for IDEF/sub 0/ structured analysis diagrams

SAtool, a graphics IDEF/sub 0/ editor for a SUN workstation, is described. An extension of the original IDEF/sub 0/ definition is a data dictionary. Entries are defined for both activities and data items and mapped into a relational database management system (DMBS). A data manager checks data out of the centralized DMBS in a format usable by the graphics editor and updates the appropriate relations when the data are checked back in. The data manager was developed in a generic format to support other software development tools. The editor and data manager were used in the development of a distributed mail system. User acceptance of the tool was measured through the use of a user survey. Results of this survey, as well as a description of the editor and the data manager, are presented.<>