Interface Identification

Interface Identification in PMI-PBA

Interface Identification: The Essential Guide

What Is Interface Identification?

Interface identification is the process of recognizing and documenting all the touchpoints where systems, people, departments, or organizations interact with each other within a project or business solution. These interfaces represent critical connection points that must be carefully managed to ensure successful outcomes.

Interfaces typically include:
• System-to-system interactions
• Human-to-system interactions
• Department-to-department handoffs
• Organization-to-organization boundaries
• Process-to-process connections

Why Is Interface Identification Important?

Interface identification serves as a foundational element in business analysis for several reasons:

1. Prevents Requirements Gaps: Identifying interfaces helps ensure no requirements fall through the cracks between systems or stakeholder groups.

2. Reduces Integration Issues: By mapping out all touchpoints early, you can anticipate and address potential integration challenges.

3. Clarifies Responsibilities: It establishes clear ownership of various components and interaction points.

4. Improves Communication: Provides stakeholders with visibility into how their area connects with others.

5. Enhances Risk Management: Many project failures occur at interfaces; identifying them early helps mitigate risks.

How Interface Identification Works

The process typically follows these steps:

1. Stakeholder Analysis: Identify all stakeholders involved in the solution.

2. System/Process Mapping: Document current and future state systems and processes.

3. Interface Discovery: Analyze where information or activities flow between entities.

4. Interface Documentation: Create interface tables or diagrams that capture:
• Source and destination systems/entities
• Type of information exchanged
• Frequency of interaction
• Direction of information flow
• Format requirements
• Security considerations

5. Validation: Review interface documentation with stakeholders to ensure completeness.

Common Tools for Interface Identification

• Interface tables/matrices
• Context diagrams
• Data flow diagrams
• SIPOC diagrams (Supplier, Input, Process, Output, Customer)
• Swim lane diagrams
• System architecture diagrams

Exam Tips: Answering Questions on Interface Identification

1. Recognize Interface Types: Be able to differentiate between system, human, departmental, and organizational interfaces.

2. Focus on Completeness: Exam questions often test your ability to identify all relevant interfaces in a scenario.

3. Understand Documentation Methods: Know how different diagrams and documents capture interface information.

4. Connect to Requirements: Demonstrate how interface identification leads to specific interface requirements.

5. Consider Integration Points: Pay attention to system integration aspects in scenarios.

6. Look for Missing Interfaces: Questions may ask you to identify interfaces that were overlooked in a given scenario.

7. Apply Context Knowledge: Use your understanding of the entire solution context when identifying interfaces.

8. Remember Stakeholder Involvement: Highlight the importance of validating interfaces with relevant stakeholders.

Example Approach to an Exam Question:

When faced with an interface identification question:

1. Identify all systems and stakeholder groups in the scenario
2. Map out where these entities must exchange information or handoff work
3. Consider automated and manual interfaces
4. Look for potential integration challenges
5. Determine what documentation would best capture the interfaces

Remember that interface identification plays a crucial role in requirements engineering and solution design - showing that you understand this relationship will help you answer exam questions effectively.