A methodology of Visual Modeling Language evaluation

Abstract

In order to achieve more maturity in Visual Modeling Language (VML) engineering, effective methodologies of VML evaluation are necessary. This paper proposes a methodology for evaluating VML from a cognitive perspective. It discusses methodological problems of applying psychological results for VML evaluation. It then presents research on a CD-VML methodology that is based on cognitive dimensions (CD). This research covers analysis of the application of CDs in the context of VMLs, empirical studies of UML with an original CD questionnaire, customization of CDs for VML evaluation and empirical studies of use cases with a CD-VML-UC questionnaire - a product of the CD-VML methodology for use case diagram. © Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg 2005.