A model-driven approach to non-functional analysis of software architectures

We present an approach to managing formal models using model driven architecture (MDA) technologies that deliver analysis techniques through integration with the design tools and repositories that practitioners use. Expert modeling knowledge is captured in domain-specific languages and meta-model constraints. These are represented using UML (Unified Modeling Language) and collocated with designs and analysis models, providing a flexible and visible approach to managing semantic associations. The approach relies on standards to permit deployment in multiple tools. We demonstrate our approach with an example in which queuing-network models are associated with UML design models to predict average case performance.