Dependency Structure Matrix
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A Dependency Structure Matrix, or DSM (also referred to as Dependency Structure Method, Design Structure Matrix, Problem Solving Matrix (PSM), incidence matrix, N-square matrix or Design Precedence Matrix), is a compact, matrix representation of a system or project. The approach can be used to model complex systems in systems engineering or systems analysis, and in project planning and project management.
A dependency structure matrix lists all constituent subsystems/activities and the corresponding information exchange and dependency patterns. In other words, it details what pieces of information are needed to start a particular activity, and shows where the information generated by that activity leads. In this way, one can quickly recognise which other tasks are reliant upon information outputs generated by each activity.
DSM analysis provides insights into how to manage complex systems or projects, highlighting information flows, task sequences and iteration. It can help teams to streamline their processes based on the optimal flow of information between different interdependent activities.
DSM analysis can also be used to manage the effects of change. For example, if the specification for a component had to be changed, it would be possible to quickly identify all processes or activities which had been dependent on that specification, reducing the risk that work continues based on out-of-date information.
A small number of computer software applications incorporate dependency structure matrices. The leaders in this field include BIW Technologies' PlanWeaver (employed in aerospace, defence and construction projects), Lattix LDM (used to manage software architecture), DeMAID/GA and Problematics.
DSM is used in the Analytical Design Planning Technique, an engineering design planning and control approach developed at Loughborough University in the 1990s, and now marketed by Adept Management Ltd.
