Network Diagrams

Scott W. Ambler
The Object Primer 3rd Edition: Agile Model Driven Development (AMDD) with UML 2 Network diagrams, an example of which is depicted in Figure 1, are commonly used to depict hardware nodes as well as the connections between them.  Network diagrams are arguably a high-level form of UML deployment diagram with extensive use of visual stereotypes.   

 

Figure 1. Network diagram for the university system.

 

Network diagrams are often drawn using software-based drawing tools, Figure 1 was drawn using Microsoft Visio, although there is nothing stopping you from using simpler tools such as whiteboards.  Hand-drawn network diagrams are often used as the starting point for either a “clean” network diagram created with a drawing tool or a more detailed UML deployment diagram.

The scope of a network diagram can be either a single application, a family of applications, or even your entire enterprise.  An enterprise network diagram is often used as the starting point, when available, for either an application-level network diagram or UML deployment diagram.  A combination of a network diagram and installation script is often used as an alternative to a detailed UML deployment diagram.

 

Source

This artifact description is excerpted from Chapter 10 of The Object Primer 3rd Edition: Agile Model Driven Development with UML 2.

 

Suggested Reading

The Object Primer 3rd Edition: Agile Model Driven Development (AMDD) with UML 2   The Object Primer 3rd Edition: Agile Model Driven Development with UML 2 is an important reference book for agile modelers, describing how to develop 35 types of agile models including all 13 UML 2 diagrams.  Furthermore, this book describes the techniques of the Full Lifecycle Object Oriented Testing (FLOOT) methodology to give you the fundamental testing skills which you require to succeed at agile software development.  The book also shows how to move from your agile models to source code (Java examples are provided) as well as how to succeed at implementation techniques such as refactoring and test-driven development (TDD).  The Object Primer also includes a chapter overviewing the critical database development techniques (database refactoring, object/relational mapping, legacy analysis, and database access coding) from my award-winning Agile Database Techniques book.
Agile Modeling   Agile Modeling: Effective Practices for Extreme Programming and the Unified Process is the seminal book describing how agile software developers approach modeling and documentation.  It describes principles and practices which you can tailor into your existing software process, such as XP, the Rational Unified Process (RUP), or the Agile Unified Process (AUP), to streamline your modeling and documentation efforts.  Modeling and documentation are important aspects of any software project, including agile projects, and this book describes in detail how to elicit requirements, architect, and then design your system in an agile manner.
Elements of UML 2.0 Style   The Elements of UML 2.0 Style describes a collection of standards, conventions, and guidelines for creating effective UML diagrams. They are based on sound, proven software engineering principles that lead to diagrams that are easier to understand and work with.  These conventions exist as a collection of simple, concise guidelines that if applied consistently, represent an important first step in increasing your productivity as a modeler.  This book is oriented towards intermediate to advanced UML modelers, although there are numerous examples throughout the book it would not be a good way to learn the UML (instead, consider The Object Primer).  The book is a brief 188 pages long and is conveniently pocket-sized so it's easy to carry around.

Translations

 

Let Me Help

I actively work with clients around the world to improve their information technology (IT) practices as both a mentor/coach and trainer.  A full description of what I do, and how to contact me, can be found here

 


Copyright © 2003-2006 Scott W. Ambler

Last updated: April 3, 2006
This site owned by
Ambysoft Inc.

Agile Data (AD)  |  Agile Unified Process (AUP)  |  Enterprise Unified Process (EUP)  |  My Writings