A function describes internal behavior performed by an active structure element that is required to produce a set of products, services or results at a Layer. It is performed by a single active structure element.

Processes describe a flow of activities. Functions group activities according to their required skills, knowledge, and resources. A process forms a string of functions.

A function may be triggered by, or trigger, any other behavior element (event, process, function, or interaction).

A function may access passive structure elements at the layer. A function may realize one or more services and may use (internal) services (at multiple layers). Active structure elements at the same layer may be assigned to a function.

The name of a function should preferably be a verb ending with "-ing"; e.g., "claims processing".

Category: Layer and Behaviour aspect

Examples: Financial Handling, Claims Processing, Asset Management, Maintaining Customer Relations, and see the examples at each layer

Typical Relationships:

  • Flow - function, role
  • Triggering - event, function
  • Access - passive structure element
  • Realisation - service
  • Assignment - active structure element

Source: Generalization of Business Function, Application Function and Technology Function as defined in the ArchiMate Framework.