Chapter 6 - Business Rule Models

Abstract

This chapter describes business rule models. Business rules are the fourth and last business modeling discipline. Business rules shape the behavior of a business and guide the behavior of the business's employees. Business rules explain what is allowed and what is not allowed. A business rule model also explains the consequences of violation: what happens when a rule is violated. Business rules guide behavior. Operative business rules guide behavior by stating what is obligatory, what is prohibited, or what is permitted only under certain conditions. Structural business rules guide behavior by defining what is necessary, what is impossible, or what is possible only under certain conditions. Operative business rules can be violated. Violations are prevented through enforcement. Business rules are precise—precise enough to be directly enforceable. If someone knows a rule and sees relevant behavior, that individual can determine whether the behavior violates the rule. Business policies are the less precise and more abstract cousins of business rules. Business rules are often derived from business policies. Business rules are richly connected to other business model elements. Business rules govern strategies. Business rules support the achievement of goals. Business rules are established by organizations. And most important, business rules guide business processes and the gateways and activities within those processes.