What are Data Flow Diagrams primarily used for?

Data Flow Diagrams (DFDs) are primarily used for analyzing and designing systems. They serve as a tool to represent the flow of information within a system and illustrate how data moves from one process to another, highlighting the various components involved, such as data sources, data processes, storage, and data destinations. By employing DFDs, analysts can capture the functional requirements of a system, allowing them to identify areas for improvement, streamline processes, and ensure that all necessary data interactions are accounted for in the design.

This visual representation helps stakeholders understand the current system's structure and facilitates communication among those involved in the system's development, including managers, programmers, and end users. Thus, the effectiveness of DFDs in mapping out the elements of a system's processes underscores their importance in system analysis and design.