Re: Task vs Function

[Dave Whelan <dwhelan -at- PANGEA -dot- CA>]

Tony says:

>However, I am trying to write a paper on the unique benefits of data
>flow diagrams in performing an end user task analysis.  And, in talking
>with others, what I am finding is that there is so much confusion
>surrounding tasks, functions, and their interrelationship that it is
>hard to state anything without losing a significant portion of the
>readers.

This is an interesting problem which can have several answers. I think it's
a question of focus. To me, the word function is less focused than the word
task, so I tend to use function to describe work in overall terms, task to
describe work details.

In the general sense, the word function has more to do with defining what a
person or thing is; the word task has more to with defining what a person or
thing does: My chauffeur's function is to drive the car, one of his tasks is
to get me to the church on time.

In the specialized terminology of science-based professionals, the word
function acquires additional meanings that are very focused indeed, but
still the general hierarchy holds. My module's function is to divide two
integers, one of its tasks is to load the divisor into a shift register.

I would place the word function higher in the hierarchy than the word task.

Regards,
Dave.

****************************************************
David P. Whelan, Whelan Technical Services
Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada (204) 334-1339
 mailto:dwhelan -at- ieee -dot- org
 http://www.pangea.ca/~dwhelan
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