A methodology to model the functional structure of an organization

The Integrated Computer Aided Manufacturing (ICAM) program of the U.S. Air Force identified a need to better communicate and analyze manufacturing for the people involved in improving productivity. To satisfy that need, the ICAM program developed the IDEF (ICAM Definition) method to address particular characteristics of manufacturing. This IDEF Method is equally applicable in analyzing other types of organizations.IDEF comprises of three modeling methodologies: Function model methodology (IDEF₀), Information model methodology (IDEF₁) and Dynamics model methodology (IDEF₂). This paper reports on the function model methodology only. This methodology is used to construct a function model which helps in understanding the actions, activities, decisions, and informational interfaces needed to support the functions of an organization.