DMN requirement elements

The decision requirement diagram sits above the tables and shows structure: which decisions depend on which other decisions, what input data they need, and which knowledge sources govern them.

It is the map. The tables are the detail.


#When it matters

  • Decisions built from several sub-decisions.

  • Governance work, where the authority behind a rule matters.


#The symbols

Symbol

Means

Decision

Rectangle. Produces an output from inputs.

Input data

Rounded rectangle with flat ends. Data supplied from outside.

Business knowledge model

Rectangle with clipped corners. Reusable logic.

Knowledge source

Wavy-bottomed shape. The authority: a policy, a regulation, a person.

Information requirement

Solid arrow. Data flowing into a decision.

Authority requirement

Dashed arrow. A knowledge source governing a decision.


#A few things that catch people out

  • Knowledge sources are how you record that a rule comes from a specific regulation. Auditors ask.

  • Information requirements are solid; authority requirements are dashed. They are not interchangeable.

  • Draw the requirement diagram first. It shows how many tables you actually need.



Pick the hit policy on purpose.