A tool for hypertext-based systems analysis and dynamic evaluation

The authors propose a tool for systems analysis that incorporates hypertext, simulation and expert system techniques. The tool, Hyper Analysis Toolkit (HAT), provides a hypertext linkage of graphical models, such as DFDs (data flow diagrams) and ERDs (entity relation diagrams) with system description narratives and other documents created during the early stages of systems analysis. Hyperlinks placed in diagrams and documents provide an easy way for users and system analysts to navigate and cross-reference systems models. The tool also includes a simulation package and a rule-based expert system to evaluate models statistically and dynamically. Extensive evaluations of models will give estimates of the system dynamics at the early stages of the systems development life cycle.<>