Overview
ISO/IEC/IEEE 31320-1:2012 - Information technology - Modeling Languages - Part 1: Syntax and Semantics for IDEF0 formally defines the IDEF0 functional modeling language. The standard specifies the visual syntax (the drawn elements used to construct IDEF0 diagrams) and the semantics (what those visual elements mean when used together under the standard’s rules). It documents the allowable diagram types, model page relationships, diagram features, reference expressions, and provides an abstract formalization of the IDEF0 language. The document is the international publication of IEEE Std 1320.1 and is oriented toward paper presentation while separating the abstract model from its presentation media.
Key Topics and Technical Requirements
- Language constructs: Defines IDEF0’s primary modeling components - functions (named boxes) and the objects that connect them (arrows) - and how they interrelate in diagrams.
- Syntax rules: Specifies how graphical elements may be combined to form valid IDEF0 diagrams and how diagram pages are structured and referenced.
- Semantics: Describes the meaning implied by specific, allowable combinations of boxes and arrows, ensuring consistent interpretation across users and tools.
- Diagram types and model pages: Identifies the different diagrams that make up an IDEF0 model and the model pages to which diagrams are associated.
- Reference expressions: Defines IDEF0 reference expressions and diagram feature references used to cross-reference model elements and maintain hierarchical consistency.
- Abstract formalization: Presents a mathematical/formal foundation of the IDEF0 language that separates the conceptual model from its presentation (page layout), enabling implementation in diverse media.
- Scope limitations: Focuses on language syntax and semantics; it does not prescribe detailed methodology, data-gathering procedures, or presentation media beyond paper-oriented guidance.
Practical Applications
ISO/IEC/IEEE 31320-1:2012 (IDEF0) is used to:
- Model and document organizational functions, processes, and system activities.
- Support requirements definition and systems-level design by clarifying what functions must be performed.
- Analyze existing systems for process improvement, integration, or reengineering.
- Provide a standard, unambiguous representation for communication among stakeholders, analysts, and architects.
Who Should Use This Standard
- Systems engineers, enterprise architects, and solution designers
- Business analysts and process improvement professionals
- Software engineers and integration specialists
- Government and defense organizations requiring standardized functional models
- Tool vendors implementing IDEF0 modeling support
Related Standards
- ISO/IEC/IEEE 31320-2 - Syntax and Semantics for IDEF1X (data modeling)
- Historical references: IEEE Std 1320.1-1998, FIPS PUB 183 (IDEF0 origins)
Keywords: ISO/IEC/IEEE 31320-1:2012, IDEF0, functional modeling, modeling languages, syntax and semantics, IEEE Std 1320.1, function model, enterprise modeling.