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There are so many tools to organize your projects. Today, in the family of organization and visualization tools, we ask the FAST diagram to join us!
If you want to detail the development of your product from all angles, in a collaborative, exhaustive and 100% functional way, you've come to the right place! Today we study the role and importance of this matrix. We give you a quick definition, illustrated examples, issues and diagram template here ⤵️
The FAST diagram, whose initials stand for Function Analysis System Technique, is a diagram:
In this simplified example:
This is one of the deliverables and means used in functional analysis, which aims to determine the architecture of a system, both in industry and in IT. Other deliverables include:
The first example of a possible FAST diagram:
The second example of a possible washing machine FAST diagram.
How -> | <- Why | |
Stirring the laundry |
Rotating the drum |
Managing the speed and direction of rotation |
Converting electrical energy into mechanical rotation energy | ||
Adapting energy | ||
Distributing energy |
☝️ You should not confuse the FAST diagram with the APTE diagram. The APTE diagram is used to represent all constrained functions around the main function:
The FAST model starts from the expressed needs and illustrates how to answer them as objectively and exhaustively as possible.
In the context of value-based management, for example for the development or improvement of a product, a process or a project, it enables engineers to translate services into technical functions, thanks to a good knowledge of the product.
In short, the FAST diagram encourages a creative and collaborative thinking process by allowing to:
How to make a good functional analysis? ✅
There are different methods of using and building an efficient FAST diagram. Some can mention basic function, cost and other components.
A FAST diagram can take many forms, like a tree or even regular lines. The objective is to support the project and to meet future customers expectations or the values expected by clients.
It is up to you to choose what will the content of your FAST diagram describe!
We give you a pictured example.
Here is a FAST diagram to fill in, in Word format, starting from a preconceived and blank template. For this, there are no arrows, you have to indicate them at the appropriate places.
FAST diagram template
DownloadEvery project and every diagram are different, so we recommend that you use software that allows you to make a custom FAST diagram online, like a project management or BPM tool to design your diagrams or mind maps more effectively.
What about you, do you use online software to make your FAST diagram faster?