Final answer:
A systems flowchart shows the flow of data through a system including hardware and processes, while a data flow diagram focuses on the logical flow of data between processes within a part of a system. The systems flowchart includes physical components while a DFD does not.
Step-by-step explanation:
A systems flowchart differs from a data flow diagram (DFD) in that it focuses on showing the flow of data through an entire system, including hardware, processes, and storage, whereas a DFD emphasizes the flow of data between processes and data stores within an application or a specific part of a system.
While a DFD provides a high-level view of how data moves through a system, a systems flowchart goes beyond this to represent how physical components interact and the sequence of operational processes. A systems flowchart includes devices, Human-Machine interfaces, and manual interventions, highlighting the systemic view and operation of the information system. On the other hand, a DFD depicts data inputs and outputs from each process, with less emphasis on the physical components that perform these processes.
Thus, the systems flowchart is more comprehensive regarding the inclusion of system components, whereas the DFD is focused solely on the logical flow of data within the system.