A classification of partitioning rules for information system design

Abstract

In designing a computer-based information system one can partition the transformation process in many alternative ways. To find the optimal partition, a designer needs explicit rules which predict the most successful grouping off unctions to form modules. Three criteria for success and four types of grouping are distinguishable. This suggests a three-by-four classification scheme. When published rules are classified according to this scheme, it emerges that: - many categories are empty, or near-empty, and therefore constitute research problem areas - apparent contradictions between rules can be resolved by explicitly stating the success criteria addressed - rules which have been proposed/or use in physical design can also be applied in logical design.