Implementation and first evaluation of a molecular modeling language

Abstract

Traditional conceptual modeling languages are oriented towards certain aspects of the problem domain e.g., data, processes, objects, actors, or goals. Although a distinct perspective can be beneficial when it is decided what perspective is most appropriate, there is no perspective that is best for all problem domains, and you usually have to integrate concepts from several perspectives to get a good understanding of the overall situation. In early analysis, it can be argued for a modeling languages that allow the modeler high freedom. An approach called GEMAL - Generic Enterprise Modeling and Analysis Language supporting these needs by building on a molecular modeling thinking, is described. An early evaluation of the language as implemented in the Troux Architect (METIS) tool is presented. It is illustrated how a modeling approach of this type can be an efficient way of capturing a large range of concepts by combining a small set of building blocks in a molecular manner, although more research is needed to investigate if this is a generally applicable approach or if it is only relevant to use for modeling experts for sense-making and early analysis