How do you create a dependency map for systems operating in multi-tier architecture?

1. Identify System Components:

Start by listing all the components in your multi-tier architecture.

Presentation Tier: Web server, user interface elements

Business Logic Tier: Application server, business logic modules

Data Tier: Database server, data storage solutions

Additional Tiers: Any other relevant tiers like a middleware layer or a cache layer

2. Define Dependencies:

Map the interactions between the tiers.

Data flow: How data moves between tiers (e.g., user input from presentation to processing in business logic, then data retrieval from database)

API calls: APIs used for communication between tiers.

External dependencies: Any external systems or services relied upon

3. Choose a Representation Method:

Decide how to visualize your map. There are different options:

Diagramming Tools: Use software like Visio or draw.io to create a visual flow chart with nodes representing components and arrows depicting dependencies.

Spreadsheet: A simpler approach is to use a spreadsheet where rows represent components and columns represent dependent components (marked with an “X” or similar).

4. Consider Advanced Techniques (Optional):

• For complex systems, explore advanced methods:

Automated Dependency Mapping Tools: Tools can discover dependencies automatically by analyzing code and network traffic.

Layered Dependency Maps: Create separate maps for each tier for a more granular view.

Additional Tips:

• Document Assumptions: Note down any assumptions made during the mapping process.
• Maintain the Map: Dependency maps need to be updated as the system evolves.