PIM tool: Support for pattern-driven and model-based UI development

Abstract

Model-based approaches describe the process of creating UI models and transforming them to build a concrete UI. Developers specify interactive systems on a more abstract and conceptual level instead of dealing with low level implementation. However, specifying the various models is a complex and time consuming task. Pattern-based approaches encapsulate frequently used solutions in form of building blocks that developers may combine to create a user interface model. Thus they enforce reuse and readability and reduce complexity. In this paper we present a comprehensive framework that unites model-based and pattern-driven approaches. We introduce the "Patterns In Modelling" (PIM) tool, that implements this framework. We will demonstrate the functioning of the tool by using an illustrative example. We primarily focus on the creation of the task model and give a brief outlook how patterns will be applied to the other levels within the framework. © Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg 2007.