They also illustrate the relationship between tangible business objects, such as a product or service, as well as intangible business objects, like a backlog.ĮR diagrams are also used alongside data flow diagrams, which map out the flow of data in systems and processes. For example, a product manager’s relationship with a developer. They typically visualize relationships between different roles.
These entity-relationship models are common in software engineering, education, research, and business information systems.
It’s sometimes known as a logical data model, a conceptual data model, or a physical data model.
Displayed in a flow chart style, this database diagram uses arrows to demonstrate how different entities relate to one another. Peter Chen, a computer scientist, created the concept in the 1970s. What is an entity relationship diagram?Īn entity relationship diagram (ERD) portrays relationships between entities (otherwise known as actors) in a system. It’s a logical model that makes it easier to visualize database design. The entity relationship diagram outlines how entities (such as people, objects, and concepts) relate to each other in your system. This is where an entity relationship diagram can help. Understanding the ins and outs of a complex system is no easy feat - especially when you need to explain it to external stakeholders. About the Entity Relationship Diagram template