In Data Flow Diagrams, what do control flows represent?

In Data Flow Diagrams (DFDs), control flows are primarily used to represent process obligations and constraints. This means that they indicate how the flow of data is governed by rules, procedures, or policies that dictate what should be done with the data at different points in a system. Control flows can illustrate the necessary checks, validations, or conditions that must be met for the data to move from one process or storage to another, helping to ensure that the system operates within specified guidelines. This is essential for understanding how data is managed and processed within the system.

The emphasis on process obligations and constraints highlights the importance of rules that govern the behavior and interaction of various elements in a data processing environment. This allows analysts and stakeholders to clarify how data integrity and compliance with organizational or regulatory guidelines will be maintained throughout the system's operations. Understanding these control flows helps to map out the dynamics of a system accurately, ultimately aiding in the design and analysis of information systems.