Overview

Map the components, relationships, and boundaries of a technical system with this system concept map template. Designed for software engineers, architects, and technical product managers, this template provides a visual framework for documenting how a system works — from its core components to its external integrations and data flows.

Key Features

• Core system boundary frame with internal component blocks
• External system and integration zones outside the boundary
• Data flow connectors with directional arrows and protocol labels
• Component description fields for adding technical detail
• Legend section for notation and color coding reference

How to Use

1. Draw the system boundary using a frame — everything inside is part of your system, everything outside is an external dependency
2. Add component blocks inside the boundary using shapes — one block per major component or service
3. Add external systems outside the boundary — third-party APIs, databases, other internal services — and connect them with the Connector tool
4. Label each connector with the communication protocol or data type using the Text tool (REST, gRPC, event, SQL, etc.)
5. Add component descriptions as sticky notes or Cards attached to each block — include the technology, owner team, and key responsibilities

Benefits

System concept maps are the document everyone wishes existed on the day they need to debug something at 2am. Building one proactively gives your team a shared mental model that pays dividends every time the system changes or a new engineer joins.