Model-Driven Architecture

Abstract

Executive Summary This guide describes the Model Driven Architecture (MDA) approach as defined by the Object Management Group (OMG). MDA provides an approach for deriving value from models and architecture in support of the full life cycle of physical, organizational and I.T. systems 1. The MDA approach represents and supports everything from requirements to business modeling to technology implementations. By using MDA models, we are able to better deal with the complexity of large systems and the interaction and collaboration between organizations, people, hardware, software. The primary feature of MDA which enables us to deal with complexity and derive value from models and modeling is defining the structure, semantics, and notations of models using industry standards-models conforming to these standards are "MDA Models". MDA models can then be used for the production of documentation, acquisition specifications, system specifications, technology artifacts (e.g. "source code") and executable systems. MDA leverages models to enhance the agility of planning, design, and other lifecycle processes, and improve the quality and maintainability of the resulting products. MDA can also be used to relate the models to implemented solutions and related artifacts, such as when transforming a software design model to executable code, or relating the design model to its requirements. The MDA set of standards includes the representation and exchange of models in a variety of modeling languages, the transformation of models, the production of stakeholder documentation, and the execution of models. MDA models can represent systems at any level of abstraction or from different viewpoints, ranging from enterprise architectures to technology implementations. MDA "connects the dots" between these different viewpoints and abstractions. This MDA guide describes the MDA vision, standards and value proposition for decision makers and developers who are considering or employing a model driven approach. This white paper is part of a set of MDA resources which may be found on "http://www.omg.org/mda/". Please see this web site for more information.