LayeredDiagramme

LayeredDiagramme is a visual notation and methodological approach used to depict systems and processes as a stack of horizontal layers. Each layer represents a level of abstraction, concern, or responsibility, and components within a layer are connected to interfaces with adjacent layers. The notation emphasizes the direction of dependencies, typically showing higher-level layers relying on services or data provided by lower layers, while preserving clear separation between concerns.

In a LayeredDiagramme diagram, blocks or nodes within a layer denote components, services, or modules. Arrows illustrate allowed interactions, data flows, and interface boundaries. The layout supports adding or removing layers to adapt the diagram to changing architectures, making it easier to illustrate how a system evolves without reworking the entire model. Common practice includes color-coding by layer type (for example presentation, domain logic, data access) and simple shapes to minimize visual clutter.

Applications for LayeredDiagramme include software architecture, enterprise architecture, and business process modeling. It is particularly useful for clarifying responsibilities, defining clean interfaces between layers, and communicating architectural concepts to diverse stakeholders such as developers, managers, and clients. The approach aids in identifying coupling between layers and assessing scalability and maintainability by examining how changes propagate through the stack.

Limitations of LayeredDiagramme include the risk of oversimplification of dynamic behavior and cross-cutting concerns that cut across multiple layers. Complex, highly interconnected systems may require additional diagram types to capture nuanced interactions. The method is typically used in conjunction with more detailed modeling techniques.

See also: layered architecture, N-tier architecture, dependency diagram, system architecture diagram.