THE DESIGN METHODS HANDBOOK
3.17 Hierarchical Tree Structure
Tree Structures break down the elements of a system into different levels.
A tree structure or tree diagram is a way of representing the hierarchical nature of a structure in a graphical form. This tool is one of the best tools for organizing elements in their levels of hierarchy.
The Systems Concept and Hierarchical Tree Structure
The Systems Concept consists of five elements:
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Environment
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System
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Sub-System
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Components
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Parts
Environment
Where the system starts.
The boundary.
System
The main element to be evaluated.
Anything can be a system.
Sub-System
The second main element of the system.
Components
The main elements of the sub-system.
This can be a system itself.
Parts
The parts and features of the system.
Example:
Environment: The Phone
System: Home Screen
Sub-System: The Folder (grouping Apps)
Components: Apps in a group
Parts: Calculator App
Hierarchical Tree Structure and Systems Concept
Environment:
Establish an environment where your product is used. This is sometimes considered the boundary.
System:
List the main products or elements used with your product that are to be evaluated. Your product may be in the sub-system category.
Sub-System:
List secondary (sub) product and elements that may be used with your product. Your product may be in the sub-system category.
Components:
List the main elements (components) of the sub-system in or used with your product. Components may be required for use of your product.
Parts:
List the major parts and features of your product that are required in normal use.
The Systems Concept and Hierarchical Tree Structure Example:
