Process description techniques: which item below is NOT primarily a tool for describing processes?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: Data dictionaries (focus on data definitions, not process behavior)

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Analysts document both what systems do (processes) and what they store (data). This question distinguishes process-oriented techniques from data-oriented artifacts.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Structured English, decision tables, and pseudocode express logic and rules.
  • Data dictionaries catalog data elements, structures, and relationships.
  • We seek the option that is not primarily for process description.


Concept / Approach:
Process tools articulate conditions, actions, loops, and decisions. Data dictionaries define attributes (name, type, length, allowed values), sources/targets, and relationships. Hence, a data dictionary complements process specifications but is not itself a process description tool.


Step-by-Step Solution:
1) Classify each option as process- vs data-focused.2) Structured English, decision tables, and pseudocode: process logic devices.3) Data dictionary: data catalog tool.4) Therefore, the correct answer is “Data dictionaries.”


Verification / Alternative check:
Industry practice separates logical process models (e.g., decision tables, flow descriptions) from data dictionaries and schemas.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Structured English, decision tables, and pseudocode all describe behavior and decision logic; they are fundamentally process-oriented.


Common Pitfalls:
Assuming data definitions alone capture business rules; many rules need explicit process representations.


Final Answer:
Data dictionaries (focus on data definitions, not process behavior).

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