15 interpretation problems in the semantics of UML 2.5.1 activities

Abstract

The semantics of UML presented in the OMG standard is defined informally in plain language. The lack of formal semantics brings ambiguity problems, crucial especially in case of automation of system development process and design of tools supporting the process (that implement validation of the systems’ specification, model-checking, transformations, or code generation). The aim of the paper is to discuss a list of interpretation problems related to part of UML, i.e. Activity. Authors indicate inconsistencies and problems caused by a lack of information in the UML specification, which were identified by them during an attempt of formalization of the Activity semantics.