Towards Comprehensive Modelling by Inter-model Links Using an Integrating Repository

Model-based development techniques enable a high efficiency and the mastering of complexity. For many domains more than one model has to be used to express the relevant information. Many methods use different models without a tight coupling, with a high risk of inconsistencies. Other approaches are based on metamodel extension or unified metamodels, with a limited tool support as consequence. We present an approach for the interconnection between several models in a joint repository by means of dependency relationships. The interconnection is shown between UML models, BPMN models and feature models by examples for variable workflows in mobile systems. The presented approach is implemented by the EMF-based repository EMF Trace, with XML for model representation. Dependencies are determined either automatically by a rule set or manually by explicit references.