Model Multiplicity (UML) Versus Model Singularity in System Requirements and Design
This addresses conceptual clarity in software engineering modeling, particularly for educational purposes, but is incremental as it builds on existing modeling approaches.
The paper examines model multiplicity (e.g., UML) versus model singularity (e.g., OPM, TM) in system modeling, arguing that a single unified model can represent multiple views without needing multiple models, and suggests this perspective for educational and practical use in software engineering.
A conceptual model can be used to manage complexity in both the design and implementation phases of the system development life cycle. Such a model requires a firm grasp of the abstract principles on which a system is based, as well as an understanding of the high-level nature of the representation of entities and processes. In this context, models can have distinct architectural characteristics. This paper discusses model multiplicity (e.g., unified modeling language [UML]), model singularity (e.g., object-process methodology [OPM], thinging machine [TM]), and a heterogeneous model that involves multiplicity and singularity. The basic idea of model multiplicity is that it is not possible to present all views in a single representation, so a number of models are used, with each model representing a different view. The model singularity approach uses only a single unified model that assimilates its subsystems into one system. This paper is concerned with current approaches, especially in software engineering texts, where multimodal UML is introduced as the general-purpose modeling language (i.e., UML is modeling). In such a situation, we suggest raising the issue of multiplicity versus singularity in modeling. This would foster a basic appreciation of the UML advantages and difficulties that may be faced during modeling, especially in the educational setting. Furthermore, we advocate the claim that a multiplicity of views does not necessitate a multiplicity of models. The model singularity approach can represent multiple views (static, behavior) without resorting to a collection of multiple models with various notations. We present an example of such a model where the static representation is developed first. Then, the dynamic view and behavioral representations are built by incorporating a decomposition strategy interleaved with the notion of time.