A context diagram provides a high-level view of a system, service or business area and its boundary. It shows the external people, organisations and systems that interact with it, together with the main information or value flows.
How to use this tool
Define the central system
Define the system, service or business area at the centre.
Identify the external entities
Identify external people, organisations and systems.
Add the main flows
Add the significant information, value or material flows.
Validate the boundary with stakeholders
Validate the boundary, interfaces and omissions with stakeholders.
References & further reading
Cadle, J., Paul, D., Hunsley, J., Reed, A., Beckham, D. and Turner, P. (2021). Business Analysis Techniques: 123 Essential Tools for Success, 3rd ed. BCS. ISBN 9781780175690.