MDA-Based Transformation of LMS Business Components

Abstract

The model driven engineering and generative programming are revolutionizing software development just as automation and computerization revolutionized the manufacturing process. The key technologies of these approaches are the model transformations, and development in the XML technologies. In this paper the authors show the contribution of these two techniques in the implementation of LMSGENERATOR, a Multi-target Learning management system generator with a model-driven methodology based on MDA approach coupled with component approach. Based on generative programming, from user specifications (abstract models) and the desired technologies, software bricks will be generated and assembled to produce a complete solution adapted to the area and the users’ needs. This paper focuses on the transformation rules implemented in the LMSGENERATOR cores, in particular the transformation of a detailed UML class diagram, representing a business model, into the LMS Business component. Thus, the authors show the role of programming in model transformations through the use of API manipulating UML diagrams and XML files. Also this work presents a case study to illustrate this proposed plan.