The decomposition method is a way to simplify the solution of problems of any type, based on their detailed analysis and splitting the process into several stages. Most often, the method is used in analytics, economics, mathematics and when conducting any research.
The decomposition method is based on the logic and analysis of the available data. This approach to solving the assigned tasks allows you to keep up with the modern pace of life, doing business, and even solving ordinary life problems - family, budget, psychological. Moreover, the technique is used even by those who are not familiar with its foundations and do not even suspect about its existence, that is, at a subconscious level. When building tactics of behavior with colleagues or loved ones, helping a child to complete difficult homework, thinking over the schedule of the day and our future as a whole, we use the decomposition method in one form or another.
What is the decomposition method
In simple terms, decomposition is the splitting of a single task into smaller ones, and their sequential solution to obtain an answer to the question posed or to achieve the set, final goal. The technique is as simple and understandable as possible, does not require certain skills in a specific area, and it can be used to achieve the goal even where knowledge and experience is minimal.
Many scientific works have been written about the decomposition method, its main stages, principles and areas of application have been determined. In some areas, the technique is simple, it is performed in 2-3 stages, and in some it can take a long time and go step by step, and whole groups of specialists and employees are involved in the process.
The decomposition process allows you to simplify something without breaking its integrity. The division of activities or tasks does not affect the importance of the resulting components, but it greatly facilitates and sometimes reduces the time to implement the plan. The number of goal achievement systems (levels) depends on the direction of the activity, the field of application of the method, the level of knowledge of the person who solves the problem.
Despite the fact that this method has been used since ancient times, it was described in detail, structured and presented in the form of a scientific work only in 1960, by the Americans Danzing and Woolf. It was they who developed the algorithms of the method, the basic principles and the generation columns of the method.
Decomposition principles and structure
To achieve the maximum effect from the application of the decomposition technique, the process must be carried out in accordance with certain principles (rules):
- the structuring of a task or goal should be based on the simplicity of their analysis into stages,
- subgoals should be defined so that they are as clear as possible for those who will solve them,
- after the first substructural line of secondary tasks has been formed, the task implementer (solving it) determines the need for further analysis of the goal - whether another stage is needed or not.
In the course of parsing the set goal into step-by-step steps to find the optimal solution, contradictions may arise regarding the consistency and unity of the built system. They can also be broken down into several steps to eliminate an error in solving the problem. Such an approach helps not only in finding the right answer, but also in determining the path of business development, finding research ways and cardinal solutions to optimize economic, social and psychological problems.
The structure of the decomposition method is made up of the principle of its operation. The very last (lowest) level is the initial one, and it is from this level that the search for a solution begins. The steps are performed sequentially, strictly according to the constructed scheme, and, as a rule, the process of achieving the goal does not take much time. In addition, decomposition is most effective in teamwork, when each of the participants is engaged in a specific task.
Goals and types of decomposition
Most often, the decomposition method in the modern world is used in business, or rather, in management, science of management, administration, leadership, optimization of all production and trade processes. This method of systematic data analysis is
- functional,
- structural,
- object.
In functional decomposition, at the first stage, a certain algorithm of actions is developed, for which the data schema is then adjusted. This method is optimal for situations where the data is not structured, not divided into types and subspecies.
With the structural decomposition, the task is divided into the simplest ones, from which a plan for finding a solution is formed. Subtasks are arranged in a hierarchical table, where the simplest of them in terms of solutions take the first place. Some may be offered alternatives - searching and adding information, entering new data to optimize the process.
In the course of object decomposition, the process is divided into subject areas, which are functional elements that exchange certain data (information). Each of the selected objects has certain characteristics, is responsible for the transmission or collection of information of the same type. The state of objects in this type of decomposition is called behavior, on the basis of which a particular decision on further actions is made, the path to follow to the set goal is determined.
Features of structuring the decomposition process
Structuring is the cornerstone of each of the listed types of decomposition techniques. When creating a plan for finding the right solution for a particular problem, it is recommended to follow the principles:
- strict adherence to the level system - when the lower level obeys only what is above it, and has few logical connections with those that are higher,
- the division of one task into several subtasks is performed according to the same type of characteristics, and if one of the lower structures has different characteristics, it must also be divided into several,
- all created subsystems pursue a single goal - they are a component of the main task by 100%, and subsections as a percentage should be their sum,
- the depth (the number of levels of the structure) is determined at the initial stage, a hierarchical structure is drawn up, the number of levels, so that their number allows you to visually cover the entire system at the same time.
For the decomposition method, terms that are not typical for logic and analysis are sometimes used, for example, a tree of goals and problems, which is similar in structure to a family tree. This method of structuring allows you to compactly arrange tasks and subtasks, keep all levels in a single plane, and facilitate their visualization. At the initial stage, a tree of problems is created, and after its analysis, a tree of goals is formed. As a result, the structure is preserved, and each subproblem finds its own solution.
How to choose a decomposition strategy
The initially chosen strategy of the decomposition method is not always correct, and you have to achieve what you are looking for by trying different ways of solving the problem. The first experience of creating a diagram with several levels and sublevels often leads to the creation of unnecessary small tasks that are not needed to achieve the goal. That is why experts recommend first trying the simplest ways and not making complex schemes.
When creating a decomposition structure, it is worth remembering the expression: "Problems must be solved as they appear." The basis of teaching this principle of solving problems is the use of the cut-off method:
- the main goal is determined,
- the task is divided into several diverse ones,
- subtasks, if necessary, are divided into smaller values,
- an analysis of each of the displayed lines (structures) is performed,
- unnecessary and insignificant are cut off,
- the created tree of problems and goals is transferred to a new plane,
- the decision begins.
Each step should be performed in a calm atmosphere, the stages are spoken out and visualized, which allows you to quickly identify unnecessary ones and form the most accurate program of actions to find the shortest solution.
The psychological moment is also important. Teamwork yields much better results than individual decomposition analysis. The secret is simple - the presence of listeners and critics is stimulating, and the principle "one head is good, two is better" has not been canceled and is actively used.
The decomposition method can be used in any area of life, business and science. An easier way to find solutions to the most complex problems has not yet been found. It is only important to fully master the tricks of dividing a large task or problem into smaller ones, which are easier to solve, and then add the obtained data into a single whole.
