Identification of Actors – Car Parking System
In a Car Parking System, actors are defined as external entities that interact with the system either to provide input or receive output. They can be human users or other systems. Identifying the correct actors is essential to model the system’s behavior through use cases and activity flows.
Below is a detailed list of the primary and secondary actors in a typical automated or semi-automated car parking system.
1. Vehicle Owner / Driver (Primary Actor)
This is the main user of the system who parks or retrieves a vehicle.
- Requests a parking slot
- Enters and exits the parking area
- Pays the parking fee
- May register as a member or regular user
- Interacts via kiosk, ticket machine, or mobile app
2. Parking Attendant / Staff (Secondary Actor)
They may assist users manually and manage physical logistics in semi-automated systems.
- Verifies tickets or registration
- Assists in guiding vehicles
- Handles payment disputes or errors
- Manages emergency situations or system overrides
3. System Administrator (Secondary Actor)
Responsible for configuring and maintaining the parking management system.
- Monitors system usage and occupancy
- Sets parking rates and schedules
- Manages user accounts and access levels
- Generates reports and analytics
- Resets or troubleshoots any system malfunction
4. Payment Gateway (External System Actor)
A third-party service that processes parking payments via cards, mobile wallets, or UPI.
- Processes transaction securely
- Sends confirmation back to the parking system
- Logs transaction for audits and receipts
5. Sensor System / IoT Devices (External Hardware Actor)
Includes entry/exit barriers, motion sensors, and slot detectors.
- Detects vehicle presence in slots
- Sends real-time data on occupancy
- Controls gate operations (opens/closes)
6. Mobile Application (Interface Actor)
A digital interface used by registered users for a contactless and convenient experience.
- Displays available slots
- Allows booking/reservation
- Facilitates digital payments
- Sends notifications and receipts
