Multi-perspective enterprise modeling: foundational concepts,prospects and future research challenges

The paper presents a method for multi- perspective enterprise modeling (MEMO) and a corresponding (meta-) modeling environment. An extensive analysis of requirements for enterprise modeling serves to motivate and assess the method. The method is based on an elaborate conception of multi-perspective enterprise models and on an extensible language architecture. The language architecture is comprised of a meta modeling language and an extensible set of integrated domain-specific modeling languages (DSML). The DSML are supplemented with process models and with guidelines for their reflective use. The corresponding modeling environment integrates editors for various DSML into multi-language model editors. It includes a meta model editor which enables the convenient use, development and extension of the set of supported DSML and supports the generation of respective graphical model editors. Thus, it also serves as a foundation for method engineering. MEMO covers both software engineering as well as social, managerial and economic aspects of the firm. The presentation of MEMO is supplemented with a comparative overview of other approaches to enterprise modeling. The paper concludes bys summarizing fundamental technical, epistemological and political challenges for enterprise modeling research and discusses potential paths for future research.     

A systematic approach to evaluating domain-specific modeling language environments for multi-agent systems

Multi-agent systems (MASs) include multiple interacting agents within an environment to provide a solution for complex systems that cannot be easily solved with individual agents or monolithic systems. However, the development of MASs is not trivial due to the various agent properties such as autonomy, responsiveness, and proactiveness, and the need for realization of the many different agent interactions. To support the development of MASs various domain-specific modeling languages (DSMLs) have been introduced that provide a declarative approach for modeling and supporting the generation of agent-based systems. To be effective, the proposed DSMLs need to meet the various stakeholder concerns and the related quality criteria for the corresponding MASs. Unfortunately, very often the evaluation of the DSML is completely missing or has been carried out in idiosyncratic approach. If the DSMLs are not well defined, then implicitly this will have an impact on the quality of the MASs. In this paper, we present an evaluation framework and systematic approach for assessing existing or newly defined DSMLs for MASs. The evaluation is specific for MAS DSMLs and targets both the language and the corresponding tools. To illustrate the evaluation approach, we first present SEA_ML, which is a model-driven MAS DSML for supporting the modeling and generation of agent-based systems. The evaluation of SEA_ML is based on a multi-case study research approach and provides both qualitative evaluation and quantitative analysis. We report on the lessons learned considering the adoption of the evaluation approach as well as the SEA_ML for supporting the generation of agent-based systems.     

Weaving variability into domain metamodels

Domain-specific modeling languages (DSMLs) are the essence of MDE. A DSML describes the concepts of a particular domain in a metamodel, as well as their relationships. Using a DSML, it is possible to describe a wide range of different models that often share a common base and vary on some parts. On the one hand, some current approaches tend to distinguish the variability language from the DSMLs themselves, implying greater learning curve for DSMLs stakeholders and a significant overhead in product line engineering. On the other hand, approaches integrating variability in DSMLs lack generality and tool support. We argue that aspect-oriented modeling techniques enabling flexible metamodel composition and results obtained by the software product line community to manage and resolve variability form the pillars for a solution for integrating variability into DSMLs. In this article, we consider variability as an independent and generic aspect to be woven into the DSML. In particular, we detail how variability is woven and how to perform product line derivation. We validate our approach through the weaving of variability into two different metamodels: Ecore??widely used for DSML definition??and SmartAdapters, our aspect model weaver. These results emphasize how new abilities of the language can be provided by this means.     

DSML4CP: A Domain-specific Modeling Language for Concurrent Programming

Nowadays, concurrent programs are an inevitable part of many software applications. They can increase the computation performance of the applications by parallelizing their computations. One of the approaches to realize the concurrency is using multi thread programming. However, these systems are structurally complex considering the control of the parallelism (such as thread synchronization and resource control) and also considering the interaction between their components. So, the design of these systems can be difficult and their implementation can be error-prone especially when the addressed system is big and complex. On the other hand, a Domain-specific Modeling Language (DSML) is one of the Model Driven Development (MDD) approaches which tackles this problem. Since DSMLs provide a higher abstraction level, they can lead to reduce the complexities of the concurrent programs. With increasing the abstraction level and generating the artifacts automatically, the performance of developing the software (both in design and implementation phases) is increased, and the efficiency is raised by reducing the probability of occurring errors. Thus, in this paper, a DSML is proposed for concurrent programs, called DSML4CP, to work in a higher level of abstraction than code level. To this end, the concepts of concurrent programs and their relationships are presented in a metamodel. The proposed metamodel provides a context for defining abstract syntax, and concrete syntax of the DSML4CP. This new language is supported by a graphical modeling tool which can visualize different instance models for domain problems. In order to clarify the expressions of the language; the static semantic controls are realized in the form of constraints. Finally, the architectural code generation is fulfilled via model transformation rules using the templates of the concurrent programs. To increase level of the DSML׳s leverage and to demonstrate the general support of concurrent programming by the DSML, the transformation mechanism of the tool supports two well-known and highly used programming languages for code generation; Java and C#. The performed experiments on two case studies indicate a high performance for proposed language. In this regard, the results show automatic generation of 79% of the final code and 86% of the functions/modules on average.     

基于CAFISE Framework的高适应性面向服务软件开发

在企业及电子政务应用中,由资源分布异构及需求动态变化而产生的问题越来越严重,如何让应用快速适应这些变化一直是人们关注的一个研究难题.首先给出了一个面向服务的支持业务端编程的适应性软件结构框架CAFISE(convergent approach for information system evolution)Framework,然后给出了基于该框架的面向服务的适应性软件开发方法.CAFISE Framework对异构资源的服务化、业务化及开放动态的面向服务软件体系结构提供了较好的支持.基于该结构框架的开发方法,从对影响软件的环境要素分析入手,通过质量属性驱动的体系结构分析,重点针对应用要适应的变化进行结构设计,最终通过以体系结构为基础的业务端编程,实现面向服务应用的即时开发与演化.在实际项目中的使用及实验证明:用该框架和方法开发的面向服务应用,能够较好地适应异构资源的动态变化及用户业务变更,能以较低的代价实现企业及电子政务面向服务应用的持续演化.     

Automating the construction of domain-specific modeling languages for object-oriented frameworks

The extension of frameworks with domain-specific modeling languages (DSML) has proved to be an effective way of improving the productivity in software product-line engineering. However, developing and evolving a DSML is typically a difficult and time-consuming task because it requires to develop and maintain a code generator, which transforms application models into framework-based code. In this paper, we propose a new approach for extending object-oriented frameworks that aims to alleviate this problem. The approach is based on developing an additional aspect-oriented layer that encodes a DSML for building framework-based applications, eliminating the need of implementing a code generator. We further show how a language workbench is capable of automating the construction of DSMLs using the proposed layer.     

A semi-formal description of migrating domain-specific models with evolving domains

One of the main advantages of defining a domain-specific modeling language (DSML) is the flexibility to adjust the language definition to changing requirements or in response to a deeper understanding of the domain. With the industrial applications of domain-specific modeling environments, models are valuable investments. If the modeling language evolves, these models must be seamlessly migrated to the evolved DSML. Although the changes stemming from the language evolution are not abrupt in nature, migrating existing models to a new language is still a challenging task. Our solution is the Model Change Language (MCL) tool set, which defines a DSML to describe the migration rules and then performs the model migration automatically. In this paper, we describe the precise semantics of MCL and its execution, along with the confluence of the migration.     

CVM - A communication virtual machine

The convergence of data, voice, and multimedia communication over digital networks, coupled with continuous improvement in network capacity and reliability has resulted in a proliferation of communication technologies. Unfortunately, despite these new developments, there is no easy way to build new application-specific communication services. The stovepipe approach used today for building new communication services results in rigid technology, limited utility, lengthy and costly development cycle, and difficulty in integration. In this paper, we introduce communication virtual machine (CVM) that supports rapid conception, specification, and automatic realization of new application-specific communication services through a user-centric, model-driven approach. We present the concept, architecture, modeling language, prototypical design, and implementation of CVM in the context of a healthcare application.     

A case-based method for service-oriented value chain and sustainable network design

PurposeThe purpose of this research is to present a case-based analytic method for a service-oriented value chain and a sustainable network design considering customer, environmental and social values. Enterprises can enhance competitive advantage by providing more values to all stakeholders in the network.Design/methodology/approachOur model employs a stylized database to identify successful cases of value chain application under similar company marketing conditions, illustrating potential value chains and sustainable networks as references. This work first identifies economic benefits, environmental friendliness and social contribution values based on prior studies. Next, a search engine which is developed based on the rough set theory will search and map similarities to find similar or parallel cases in the database. Finally, a visualized network mapping will be automatically generated to possible value chains.FindingsThis study applies a case-based methodology to assist enterprises in developing a service-oriented value chain design. For decision makers, this can reduce survey time and inspire innovative works based on previous successful experience. Besides, successful ideas from prior cases can be reused. In addition to customer values, this methodology incorporates environment and social values that may encourage a company to build their value chain in a more comprehensive and sustainable manner.Research implicationsThis is a pilot study which attempts to utilize computer-aided methodology to assist in service or value-related design. The pertinent existing solutions can be filtered from an array of cases to engage the advantages from both product-oriented and service-oriented companies. Finally, the visualized display of value network is formed to illustrate the results.Practical implicationsA customized service-oriented value chains which incorporates environment and social values can be designed according to different conditions. Also, this system engages the advantages from both product-oriented and service-oriented companies to build a more comprehensive value network. Apart from this, the system can be utilized as a benchmarking tool, and it could remind the decision makers to consider potential value from a more multifaceted perspective.Originality/valueThis is the first paper that applied a computer-aided method to design service-oriented value chains. This work also can serve as a decision support and benchmarking system because decision makers can develop different value networks according to various emphasized values. Finally, the visualized display of value network can improve the communication among stakeholders.     

Softwaregestützte Verhandlung in Supply-Chains

This paper focuses on the coordination of order and production policies between buyers and suppliers in supply chains. Order quantities and delivery dates have to be negotiated between the supply chain partners. The results of theses negotiations are strongly influenced by the bargaining power of the parties involved. We present a software tool which supports the supplier’s bargaining process. The software tool can be employed for the generation and evaluation of different offers.     

Development of logical and technical architectures for automotive systems

This paper presents a modeling approach for the development of software for electronic control units in the automotive domain. The approach supports the development of two related architecture models in the overall development process: the logical architecture provides a graphical, quite abstract representation of a typically large set of automotive functions. On this abstraction level no design decisions are taken. The technical architecture provides a software and a hardware representation in separated views: the software architecture describes the software realization of functions as software components, whereas the hardware architecture models hardware ntities, on which the software components are deployed. Logical as well as technical architectures only model structural information, but no behavioural information. A tight integration of both architecture levels—on the conceptual and on the tool level—with related development phases such as requirements engineering, behaviour modeling, code generation as well as version and configuration management resulting in a seamless overall development process is presented. This architecture modeling approach has been developed within a safety-relevant project at BMW Group. Positive as well as negative experiences with the application of this approach are described.     

Domain-Specific Modeling Languages to improve framework instantiation

Frameworks are reusable software composed of concrete and abstract classes that implement the functionality of a domain. Applications reuse frameworks to enhance quality and development efficiency. However, frameworks are hard to learn and reuse. Application developers must understand the complex class hierarchy of the framework to instantiate it properly. In this paper, we present an approach to build a Domain-Specific Modeling Language (DSML) of a framework and use it to facilitate framework reuse during application development. The DSML of a framework is built by identifying the features of this framework and the information required to instantiate them. Application generators transform models created with the DSML into application code, hiding framework complexities. In this paper, we illustrate the use of our approach in a framework for the domain of business resource transactions and a experiment that evaluated the efficiency obtained with our approach.     

VbTrace: using view-based and model-driven development to support traceability in process-driven SOAs

In process-driven, service-oriented architectures, there are a number of important factors that hinder the traceability between design and implementation artifacts. First of all, there are no explicit links between process design and implementation languages not only due to the differences of syntax and semantics but also the differences of granularity. The second factor is the complexity caused by tangled process concerns that multiplies the difficulty of analyzing and understanding the trace dependencies. Finally, there is a lack of adequate tool support for establishing and maintaining the trace dependencies between process designs and implementations. We present in this article a view-based, model-driven traceability approach that tackles these challenges. Our approach supports (semi-)automatically eliciting and (semi-)formalizing trace dependencies among process development artifacts at different levels of granularity and abstraction. A proof-of-concept tool support has been realized, and its functionality is illustrated via an industrial case study.     

Semi-automated architectural abstraction specifications for supporting software evolution

In this paper we present an approach for supporting the semi-automated architectural abstraction of architectural models throughout the software life-cycle. It addresses the problem that the design and implementation of a software system often drift apart as software systems evolve, leading to architectural knowledge evaporation. Our approach provides concepts and tool support for the semi-automatic abstraction of architecture component and connector views from implemented systems and keeping the abstracted architecture models up-to-date during software evolution. In particular, we propose architecture abstraction concepts that are supported through a domain-specific language (DSL). Our main focus is on providing architectural abstraction specifications in the DSL that only need to be changed, if the architecture changes, but can tolerate non-architectural changes in the underlying source code. Once the software architect has defined an architectural abstraction in the DSL, we can automatically generate architectural component views from the source code using model-driven development (MDD) techniques and check whether architectural design constraints are fulfilled by these models. Our approach supports the automatic generation of traceability links between source code elements and architectural abstractions using MDD techniques to enable software architects to easily link between components and the source code elements that realize them. It enables software architects to compare different versions of the generated architectural component view with each other. We evaluate our research results by studying the evolution of architectural abstractions in different consecutive versions of five open source systems and by analyzing the performance of our approach in these cases.     

A service-oriented architecture for robust e-voting

Of all the requirements for e-voting systems, robustness is the one that has received the least attention. This paper is concerned with addressing this issue. It is argued that a two-level consideration of robustness can facilitate the design of e-voting systems and enhance their resilience. An approach is proposed which requires, as a first step, an explicit awareness of robustness at protocol level and robustness at system level. The second step involves the identification of appropriate technologies and their integration into an architecture where the two forms of robustness are addressed. The approach is illustrated by the design and implementation of a service-oriented architecture for robust e-voting, based on the FOO92 protocol. The service-oriented architecture provided the framework for the integration of selected technologies such as blind signatures, encryption and onion routing. In addition to the just-in-time composition of the e-voting system, it supports the distribution of tasks and state. The system conforms to most e-voting requirements.     

Models as web services using the Open Geospatial Consortium (OGC) Web Processing Service (WPS) standard

Environmental modeling often requires the use of multiple data sources, models, and analysis routines coupled into a workflow to answer a research question. Coupling these computational resources can be accomplished using various tools, each requiring the developer to follow a specific protocol to ensure that components are linkable. Despite these coupling tools, it is not always straight forward to create a modeling workflow due to platform dependencies, computer architecture requirements, and programming language incompatibilities. A service-oriented approach that enables individual models to operate and interact with others using web services is one method for overcoming these challenges. This work advances the idea of service-oriented modeling by presenting a design for a modeling service that builds from the Open Geospatial Consortium (OGC) Web Processing Service (WPS) protocol. We demonstrate how the WPS protocol can be used to create modeling services, and then demonstrate how these modeling services can be brought into workflow environments using generic client-side code. We implemented this approach within the HydroModeler environment, a model coupling tool built on the Open Modeling Interface standard (version 1.4), and show how a hydrology model can be hosted as a WPS web service and used within a client-side workflow. The primary advantage of this approach is that the server-side software follows an established standard that can be leveraged and reused within multiple workflow environments and decision support systems.