Tool Support for Pattern Selection and Use

Abstract

Models are the main artifacts in Model Driven Engineering (MDE). Hence, the quality assessment of models is an important issue in MDE. Using pattern languages, while building software in the MDE approach, is of special interest to designers. Two major issues in using a pattern are "what pattern to choose?" and "how to apply the selected pattern to have a consistent model?" These issues have direct impact on the quality of models and should be given due attention. In this paper, we discuss how the idea of supporting patterns in MDE can be viewed as part of an overall verification process. Then, we present one of the core processes that can be used for verification of the application of a pattern language in a UML design. Our process is based on a UML profile defined for Fowler's "Patterns of Enterprise Application Architecture." Finally, we show how the process can be integrated into a modeling tool and help the designer in designing more consistent models. © 2009 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.