UML Methods

When UML was first introduced, it offered full support for Booch, OMT, and Objectory, the most popular OO methods of the time. However, as with all technology, UML has evolved since its introduction, and it has been altered in a way which allows it to process notations such as OMT. In addition to this, a number of new methods have been created around UML. One of the most popular UML methods is the RUP, or Rational Unified Process. Some of the other well known UML methods include the Dynamic Systems Development Method, and the Abstraction Method.

Each method is important, because they may provide solutions which are specific. In addition to this, they can be used to achieve objectives which are different from other methods. These methods are a very important part of the UML history and function, and they will continue to evolve to meet the demands of the future. If you wish to become proficient with using UML, you will want to learn about the different methods can how they can be used to solve a number of challenging problems.

UML Models

When you talk about UML, it is very important to differentiate between the system diagrams and the UML model. A system diagram is a portion of a graphical symbol, and it is used to denote the system's model. The model will have what is called a semantic backplane, and this is a document that is used to deal with the diagrams and elements of a model. There are three areas of the system model that you will want to become familiar with. These are the object model, the functional model, and the dynamic model. Each model has specific roles that it must play for the proper function of the system.

The Object model will be responsible for demonstrating the system structure and substructure, and it will do this by using relationships, attributes, and operations. Class diagrams are closely related to this model. As the name implies, the functional model will demonstrate the system functionality from the view of the user. It will be directly connected to the use case diagrams. The dynamic model will be responsible for demonstrating inner behavior of a system. It is directly connected to state machine diagrams, sequence diagrams, and activity diagrams.

It should also be noted that a model can be traded among UML tools via the XMI file format. Diagrams are important part of UML, and there are 13 of them in version 2.0. To understand why these diagrams are important, the must be structured based on hierarchy, and this can be visualized with a chart. Like the models, each diagram will have its own function within the system. For example, the behavior diagram is responsible for defining what should happen in a system. The Interaction diagram will be responsible controlling the flow of data among the elements in the system that is being modeled.

Another element that you will want to become familiar with is the Protocol State Machine. This is a variation of the State Machine, and it is used to generate models for the communication protocols of the network. The Protocol State Machine is valuable for a number of reasons. By generating models for the protocols of networks, it can allow developers to enhance those networks in a manner which will make them much more efficient.

First Page: UML Introduction