If you’ve ever confused an ERD with a class diagram, you’re not alone. ERDs show how data is structured in a database, while class diagrams show how that data behaves in software. Use ERDs for database design and class diagrams for object-oriented planning. This guide breaks down their differences, notations, mapping patterns, conversion steps, real-world examples, a migration checklist, and templates to build your own models quickly.
Modeling complex systems or software is easier when you use the right language, which is why UML and SysML are so useful. This guide looks at why each is used—UML for software design, SysML for systems engineering—and compares their diagram types, use cases, and real-world applications to help you choose the best approach for your project.
