The DEAT Business Rule Pattern Language

Russell R. Hurlbut, Ph.D.

Rule Pattern 28: Algorithm

Problem – Describing a Mathematical Calculation

Almost all business processes involve some form of mathematical computation. When the calculation is subject to some degree of variability, the aspects that are subject to change need to be identified. Each piece of the algorithm must be bound to a concrete value in order to compute the result within the context of an individual calculation.

Solution

Mathematical calculations that exhibit any degree of variability may be declared as a parameterized algorithm type. Complex algorithms may require their own domain specific language.

Example – Highest X of Y

A company awards sales bonuses based upon the compensation of each eligible employee. Since the actual calculation to determine the base compensation varies to some degree, a generalized algorithm is used that is parameter driven. Typically the highest year out of the last five is used, but for some types of seasonal salespersons this is changed to the highest twelve consecutive months out of the last three years or the highest eight months over the last two years.

Highest X of Y Parameters

Parameter Set 1	*Included Periods*	1
	*Averaging Period*	5
	*Period Type*	calendar year
	*Is Consecutive*	True
Parameter Set 2	*Included Periods*	12
	*Averaging Period*	36
	*Period Type*	calendar month
	*Is Consecutive*	True
Parameter Set 3	*Included Periods*	8
	*Averaging Period*	24
	*Period Type*	calendar month
	*Is Consecutive*	False

UML Representation and Related Patterns

The Derivation business rule pattern maps to an Operation model element.

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