Latest Module Specifications
Current Academic Year 2025 - 2026
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Description This module aims to develop students’ ability to model, analyse, and design business and information systems with a strong focus on process-oriented thinking. Building on prior knowledge of systems analysis, the module shifts the emphasis from requirements specification to design-level modelling and business process representation. In particular, the module introduces students to: - Applying UML at the system design level, with a focused recap of core modelling concepts and emphasis on structural and behavioural modelling (e.g., Class Diagram and Sequence Diagram) for solution design. - Modelling business processes using the Business Process Model and Notation (BPMN), from fundamental constructs (activities, gateways, pools and lanes) to more advanced elements (sub-processes, collaboration diagrams, and event handling). - Analysing the information system through process simulation concepts and performance considerations. - Understanding the concept of process automation and how modelled processes can be implemented within organisational and enterprise systems. The module positions business process modelling as a central skill for modern organisations and provides a foundation where students will build upon their modelling competence to address industrial transformation challenges. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Learning Outcomes 1. Describe a set of models, notations and processes for software and process requirements identification, representation, validation and analysis. 2. Analyse customer requirements and apply several documentation techniques to a software project. 3. Apply Universal Modelling Language (UML) to describe software systems with Class diagrams, Sequence Diagrams, and State Charts . 4. Design and validate Business Process Models using BPMN 2.0, applying appropriate elements (events, gateways, subprocesses, collaboration diagrams, and advanced constructs) to represent organisational workflows accurately and unambiguously. 5. Evaluate business processes using modelling and simulation techniques, including identifying bottlenecks, deadlocks, inefficiencies, and measuring key performance indicators (e.g., cycle time, throughput, resource utilisation). 6. Explain process automation solutions based on BPMN models (e.g., integrating user tasks, service tasks, business rule tasks, and external systems) to support executable and digitally enabled workflows. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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All module information is indicative and subject to change. For further information,students are advised to refer to the University's Marks and Standards and Programme Specific Regulations at: http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/index.shtml |
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Indicative Content and Learning Activities
Class Diagram Class Diagram recap Sequence Diagram Sequence Diagram BPMN core elements Activity, XOR/AND/OR gateways, Pools, Lanes BPMN Advanced modelling Collaboration Diagram, Event Handling, Sub-Process, Multi-instance activity BPMN Validation Structural correctness, Behavioural correctness, Symantic correctness Process Simulation Process Simulation Process Automation Process Automation | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Indicative Reading List Books:
Articles: None | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Other Resources
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