Dependencies between Models in the Model-driven Design of Distributed Applications

Abstract

In our previous work, we have defined a model-driven design approach based on the organization of models of a distributed application according to different levels of platform-independence. In our approach, the design process is structured into a preparation and an execution phase. In the preparation phase, (abstract) platforms and transformation specifications are defined. These results are used by a designer in the execution phase to develop a specific application. In this paper, we analyse the dependencies between the various types of models used in our design approach, including platformindependent and platform-specific models of the application, abstract platforms, transformation specifications and transformation parameter values. We consider models as modules and employ a technique to visualize modularity which uses Design Structure Matrices (DSMs). This analysis leads to requirements for the various types of models and directives for the design process which reduce undesirable dependencies between models.