With the evolution of the structured approach to systems analysis and design, rigorous techniques are available for the definition of requirements phase of systems development. Consequently, functional analysis has been a major feature of the recently completed definition phase of project EU130, a pan-European research project concerned with incorporating Computer Integrated Manufacturing technology into the constructional steelwork industry.

Whilst no formal restrictions are placed on the domains within which functional analysis may be applied, conventional paradigms tend to centre on well defined operations exhibiting closed system characteristics. In contrast, a novel application of functional analysis is presented herein which is concerned with the operation of the constructional steelwork industry by reference to the procurement of a typical steel framed building, the principal market sector within the industry.

The results of the analysis process are embodied in a complementary set of functional models of the industry. The paper includes illustrations of these models and sets out the essential concepts and conventions of the particular functional analysis method adopted. However, of predominant concern is the philosophy and techniques employed in constructing such models of a complex and diverse open system typified by the constructional steelwork industry.

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