ABSTRACT
Structure charts are used as design tools for functionally decomposing structured programs. A structure chart graphically highlights tightly coupled, excessively dependent modules that can cause debugging and maintenance problems. A structure chart is an extension of a hierarchy chart, so the core of this tool is consistent with other tools. Before a structure chart is prepared, each module’s inputs and outputs must be known. The necessary logical data structures and the program’s primary processes are defined during the systems analysis phase. Some designers identify high-level case structures by adding a transaction center to a key control module. McDonnell Douglas Automation Company’s STRADIS/DRAW is a useful tool for creating and evaluating structure charts. Numerous computer aided software engineering roducts support structure charts. A structure chart does not show the program’s sequence, selection, or repetitive logical structures; those details are inside the modules, which are viewed as black boxes.
