OML: Proposals to enhance UML

Abstract

While the UML metamodel and notation aim to be comprehensive, there are a number of areas in which this modelling language is seen to be deficient. The proposals in OML (Firesmith et al, 1997) contain a number of advanced metamodelling and notational techniques which could also be of use in enhancing UML. In particular contributions can be made in the areas of modelling responsibilities and aggregations and in the provision of notational elements underpinned by semiotics and usability concerns. Other areas of potential contribution include a more consistent and thorough treatment of abstraction foci in terms of class versus type versus instance-applicable not only at the classifier level but also to packages, scenarios etc.; the ability to discriminate clearly between the various types of inheritance and to represent these notationally. It is critical that any standard support not only a use-case and a data-driven mindset but also that of a responsibility-driven modelling process and that the results of these modelling endeavours are communicated as effectively as possible both to other developers and to users.