Q 299. Block Diagrams can be used to understand a system. What are some of the specific benefits of creating a Block Diagram? Explain with example(s).

 

 

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Block Diagram consists of blocks that are different part of the system/Process where as the lines are drawn to show the relationship between the different blocks.Block diagram can be used in various fields .It can be used in the below mentioned cases :- 

1.Electrical circuit

2.Engineering diagrams

3.Signal Processing   

4.Software Programming

5.Project Managers can use to show how various task input & Output interact with each other

6.Sales & Marketing 

Above are some of the usage of Block Diagram.

 

The above block diagram represents a flight control system of an aircraft.This shows what happens when a pilot moves the "Stick". This indicates how all the various components are dependent on each other to facilitate the final task.

 

This will help in understanding if there is a new product needs to be designed or there is any problem in an existing design.

 

This is very effective method and though it does not show each wire/circuit wise details this can help in design ,planning ,problem identification in a lot of scenarios. This has a wide applicability in Manufacturing & service industry as well. Project managers have taken the concept and are utilizing this tool in identifying what are the various aspects in a project which are interrelated and what can be a roadblock to delivery or achieving the project objectives.

 

 

 

 

What is a Block Diagram?
A block diagram is a specific, high-level flowchart utilized in engineering, hardware design, electronic design, software design, and process flow diagrams. It is used to design innovative systems or to describe and enhance existing ones. The block diagram represents, at a sketch level, how a process flows from function to function or from unit to unit within an establishment. The diagram uses blocks to reflect the essential activities and links them together by connecting lines representing elements or communication flows.

Essential Components of a Block Diagram
Block: it describes the logical and physical elements of the system.
Part:  it includes all aspects modeled using association and aggregation.
Reference: it has all the components which were developed utilizing association and aggregation.
Standard Port: is the point of interaction between a system block and the identical environment.
Flow Port: is the point of interaction wherever a block can emerge from or to.

The Ideal Applications of Block Diagram

• To provide a high-level representation of a process flow.
• To promote harmony of process function and sequence.
• To distinguish cross-functional unit interfacing.
• Problem-solving phase
• Select & define problem or opportunity
• Recognize and analyze causes or potential change
• Develop and propose possible solutions or change
• Execute and evaluate solution or change
• Measure and report solution or change results
• Acknowledge and reward team efforts

Block Diagram is typically used by

• Statistician / Quality Analyst 
• Creativity & Innovation practitioner
• Engineers 
• Project Managers
• Manufacturing
• Sales and Marketing professionals
• Administration/documentation
• Servicing/support
• Customer/quality metrics
• Change management

Benefits of the Block Diagram
Block Diagram improves understanding of the process by showing all involved parts and how they are interconnected in a straightforward format. A block diagram is a beneficial tool both in designing unique processes and in improving existing processes. In both cases, the diagram provides a fast, visually clear view of the work and should rapidly result in process points of interest.

 

Block Diagrams used "before"

• Process Analysis
• Problem Analysis
• Workflow Analysis (WFA)
• Systems Analysis Diagram 
• Work breakdown structure (WBS)

Block Diagrams used after

• Process Mapping
• Activity analysis
• Potential Problem Analysis (PPA)
• Organization Chart
• Functional Map

Symbols Used in Block Diagram 
Block diagrams use fundamental geometric shapes: Boxes, Triangles, and Circles. The essential parts and functions are represented by blocks attached by straight lines representing relationships. 

Step-by-step procedure
STEP 1 - The team distinguishes all functions or activities inside a process and checks where the start and stop functions are defined by team agreement. 
STEP 2 - The functions are then sequenced and dramatize on a whiteboard or flip charts in a block diagram arrangement.
STEP 3 - The team verifies that all functions (blocks) are considered for and represented in the proper sequence to correctly reflect the current process.
STEP 4 - Subsequently, additional supporting information is added, and the diagram is recorded.

Example of Block Diagram application
The most beneficial way to understand block diagrams is to look at the below example.

Block Diagram:

 

Block diagram use to represent process flow diagram, electronic Design, Software design and hardware design, in block diagram main function of process or part are represented with blocks and connected with lines.

It uses to make customer or high-level audience understand about the process or drawing with less detail.it is give a quick view of a system to identify the interest or trouble spots. Block diagram give a broad idea of process and not give a minor detail like each pipeline & pumps

 

 

Sourabh Nandi has provided a holistic view of block diagrams and hence is selected as the best answer.