Function hierarchy

also known as function tree

Activities

• Activity 2: Determining functions and their structures
• Activity 3: Searching for solution principles and their solutions
• Activity 5: Subdivision into modules and interface definitions

Description

The function hierarchy describes the decomposition of complex functions into less complex sub-functions. This is first done in a solution-neutral manner; solution ideas are only determined with a high degree of decomposition. The function hierarchy can be visualised in a function tree.

Procedure

1. Decompose complex functions into less complex and solution-neutral sub-functions
2. Repeat the first step until a solution-neutral decomposition is no longer possible
3. Identification of concrete solution ideas

Sources

• Gehrke 2005, p. 57, 58