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Differences between Sequence Diagram and Activity Diagram

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Understanding the differences between various diagrammatic representations is important for effective communication and problem-solving. Among these, the Sequence Diagram and the Activity Diagram stand out as two powerful tools, each serving distinct purposes but they often confuse due to their similarities. In this article, we will see the differences between the sequence Diagram and the Activity Diagram

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What is the Sequence Diagram?

It simply depicts interaction between objects in a sequential order i.e. the order in which these interactions take place. We can also use the terms event diagrams or event scenarios to refer to a sequence diagram. Sequence diagrams describe how and in what order the objects in a system function. These diagrams are widely used by businessmen and software developers to document and understand requirements for new and existing systems.

For Example:

A sequence diagram for an emotion-based music player

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What is the Activity Diagram?

The Activity Diagram is basically a flowchart (Unified Modelling Language) diagram which is used to describe the dynamic aspect of the system. the flowchart represents the flow of activities from one activity to another activity. The activities can be described as the operation of a System. The flow of control in the activity diagram is drawn from one operation to another. This flow can be sequential, branched or concurrent.

For Example:

An activity diagram for an emotion based music player

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Differences Between the Sequence Diagram and Activity Diagram

Below are the differences between the Sequence Diagram and Activity Diagram:

Aspect

Sequence Diagram

Activity Diagram

Purpose

Represents the interaction between objects in a particular sequence or scenario.

Illustrates the flow of activities or processes within a system, including decision points and parallel activities.

Focus

Emphasizes the order of messages exchanged among objects over time.

Focuses on the flow of actions or activities within the system, often showing concurrent and parallel behaviors.

Notation

Typically consists of lifelines (representing objects), messages, and activations.

Utilizes nodes (representing actions or activities), transitions (depicting flow), and decision points (showing branching).

Granularity

Usually depicts detailed interactions at the level of method calls or system events.

Offers a broader view, showcasing high-level processes and activities without intricate method-level detail.

Time Representation

Shows the chronological order of events, with time progressing from top to bottom.

Does not necessarily represent time explicitly; rather, it focuses on the logical flow of activities.

Decision Making

Limited capability for representing decision points, often depicted with combined fragments.

Allows for explicit representation of decision points, loops, and parallel activities using control nodes.

Concurrency

Can illustrate concurrent activities but may not emphasize parallelism as explicitly.

Offers clear representation of parallel activities and concurrent processes, helping in understanding system behavior under concurrency.

Use Cases

Ideal for modeling cases involving multiple objects and their interactions, such as system sequences or collaborations.

Suited for modeling complex processes, business workflows, or system behaviors involving multiple steps and decision points.


Last Updated : 20 Feb, 2024
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