What is "data flow diagram"

n. A type of flow chart; a description of data and the manual and machine processing performed on the data as it moves and changes from one stage to the next. It also includes the locations where the data are placed in permanent storage (disk, tape, etc.)

A data flow diagram (DFD) is a graphical representation of the "flow" of data through an information system, modelling its process aspects. A DFD is often used as a preliminary step to create an overview of the system, which can later be elaborated. DFDs can also be used for the visualization of data processing (structured design).

A DFD shows what kind of information will be input to and output from the system, where the data will come from and go to, and where the data will be stored. It does not show information about the timing of process or information about whether processes will operate in sequence or in parallel (which is shown on a flowchart).