The common metaphor used for systems modeling is to compare different [[Decomposition Understanding|decomposition]] levels to "zoom" in something like Google Maps. Zoom in, see your neighborhood. Zoom out, see the whole globe. In my undergrad I dreamed of some sort of Wikipedia-like application that would enable a "zoom into more detail" functionality. As I have gained more experience working with modeling and diagramming tools, however, it has become clear that such a simple "zoom into for more detail" doesn't _really_ work - at least not by using a literal "zoom". More detail in most systems almost always requires different _slices_ of detail from around the system of interest. The only case where a literal "zoom to resolve higher levels of detail" works is when you have **absolute positioning**. If there is a REASON things are placed where they are in the diagrams, then _maybe_ the literal zoom can work. Otherwise the "more detail" you seek is often particular pieces of detail strewn about the graphic. **** # More ## Source - self ## Related - [[Systems Decomposition Rule of 7]]