Model Transformation with Baggage

We use model as an example to follow or imitate, typically on a miniature or blueprint of the original. A model is often representation of a system that allows for investigation of the properties of the system and subsequently derive more other properties, fact or information based on model transformation.

"A diagram is worth a thousand of words" was why most of the modeling tools came about. But it is quite disappointed if that is all what a modeling tool can offer. A good modeling tool should be able to perform model transformation, that, it can deduce information based on the existing model properties. By doing this, not only we can discover new information or requirements based on the existing data, but also ensure the traceability and consistency among different models. Furthermore, you don't need to mentally reference, transform and transcribe information from one model to another which could significant save a lot of time and efforts.

How Visual Paradigm performs model transformation?

Visual Paradigm 14.1 introduces a unique feature called Model Baggage, made for defining and performing the transformation between models. You can imagine a Model Baggage as a kind of carriage that carries data extracted from different models or diagrams, and then transform it into another form. To perform a transformation, you need to first define a Model Baggage from the source model that you want to extract some data from, and then define a corresponding Model Baggage to receive and transform the data to a target form.

Transformation Using Model Baggage

There are many different use cases for applying transformation between systems model, for example, you can perform a maturity analysis for studying the readiness of capabilities of an enterprise for a particular business initiative in a few stages. You can categorized them into different aspects, and in turn you will study the gaps between different stages for each of those facts. You then want to summarize them in tabulated form in a particular order to see the shortcomings. Finally, you might want to add remarks on what actions will be taken as the resolution for those shortcomings. Other use cases of model transformation can be ranging from transforming diagrams from one type to another, or from a diagram to becoming a list of tasks which meant to be assigned to task manager, and etc.

Steps to perform model transformation

1. Determine the use case of transformation - Identify what type of model to be transformed to other type model.
2. Develop dummy source and target model for use in the definition of transformation. For instance, if you want to define a transformation converts an ArchiMate^® Diagram into a Use Case Diagram, create an ArchiMate Diagram and a Use Case Diagram, and with the shapes required to convert.
3. Create a baggage in the dummy source model. Include the shapes that will be treated as the source of transformation.
4. Create a baggage in the dummy target model. Include the shapes that will be treated as the target of transformation.
5. Establish the mapping between the baggages between both sides. Up to now, the definition part is done.
6. Perform transformation by applying the definition on the diagrams you want.

Baggage Transformation Mapping - An Example

The video below demonstrates the use of baggage in transforming an ArchiMate Diagram into Use Case Diagram.