The aim of this research is to evaluate and compare three software modeling and architecture tools within the context of their built-in support for Model Driven Architecture (MDA). MDA’s primary goal is to develop standards based on the notion that modeling is a preferred base for developing and maintaining systems over platform specific source code. By promoting models to primary software artifacts MDA bridges the gap between design/analysis and the implementation of software systems. This research evaluates and compares IBM Rational Software Architect, Altova UModel, and Sparx System Enterprise Architect. The evaluation is done using a well defined metric suite and a procedures log template that guided the analysis and evaluation processes. The project addressed four research questions: (1) How effective are current tools in regards to MDD within the framework of MDA? (2) What new challenges are introduced by adopting MDD within the enterprise? (3) How easy/difficult is it to integrate the tools into an existing software development environment or toolset? and (4) What are the relative strengths and weakness of the selected MDD tools? The research results suggest that a progressive approach to implementing MDA should be taken within the enterprise. Additionally, tool selection should be based on environment, resource availability, project scope, and budget. Other inferences and results are presented and discussed.

Recommended Citation: Alford R., Simmonds D., Reinicke B., Vetter R., (2013). An Evaluation of Model Driven Architecture (MDA) Tools. UNCW MS CSIS Proceedings. V. 7 , N. 5 .