The OV-6b "State Transition Description" is a graphical method of describing how an Operational Activity responds to various events by changing its state. The diagram represents the sets of events to which the Activities respond (by taking an action to move to a new state) as a function of its current state. Each transition specifies an event and an action.

Guide: DoDAF Architecture Framework Version 2.02 – Page 156

An OV-6b can be used to describe the detailed sequencing of activities or work flow in the business process. The OV-6b is particularly useful for describing critical sequencing of behaviors and timing of operational activities that cannot be adequately described in the OV-5b Operational Activity Model. The OV-6b relates events and states. A change of state is called a transition. Actions may be associated with a given state or with the transition between states in response to stimuli (e.g., triggers and events).

The intended usage of the OV-6b includes:

• Analysis of business events
• Behavioral analysis.
• Identification of constraints

AcqTips:

• The DoDAF descriptions in this website are very generic and are mostly taken from the DoDAF Architecture Framework website. Make sure you visit the actual website for the most update information and a more thorough explanation of each viewpoint.
• DoDAF Version 1.0, although outdated, has some good examples on how to construct AV’s, OV’s, and SV’s.

AcqLinks and References:

• [1] DoDAF Architecture Framework Version 2.02
• DoD Architecture Framework Working Group Version 1.0, Volume 1: Definition and Guideline, 9 Feb 04 (Old Version)
• DoD Architecture Framework Version 1.0, Volume 2: Product Description, 9 Feb 04 (Old Version)
• Website: DoDAF Architecture Framework – DoD Deputy Chief Information Officer
• Website: DoDAF Version 2.02 Journal

Updated: 9/27/2017