A Domain Model is a Map

A Domain Model is a conceptual map that depicts a real business case. Like any good map, the model simplifies the terrain of the business case by making it easier to understand.

The model attempts to represent your domain with the help of a cluster of objects, working together to solve the business problem. These objects would typically enclose both information as well as the behavior of the domain.

Most importantly, the model is a simplification of the real business cases. Just like a subway map, it strives to improve understandability by simplifying things, at the cost of hiding some details.

The simplification is a feature and not a liability - it is necessary to get all players in a software development lifecycle - Business Users, Product Owners, Developers, QA - to a common ground.

Equally important is to understand that the the map is not the terrain. It is not a stand-in for the domain itself and it is not expected to represent the domain in totality.