A domain-specific model-based design approach for end-user developers

Abstract

The paper investigates model-based design (MBD) ideas for supporting end-user developers in creating mobile data collection tools. End-user developers cannot assumed to be able (or willing) to specify formal task models as they are common in MBD approaches. They use their knowledge about domain objects and general task characteristics to specify constraints on the execution of tasks. The paper shows that the restriction to specific task domains makes it possible to tailor the underlying meta-models and transfor-mation rules accordingly and to provide end-users with convenient tool support. In particular, dialog models and their stepwise enrichment and refinement are considered in the paper. General implications of the suggested ideas for MBD are discussed. The proposed approach is implemented using the Eclipse Modeling Framework and a case study demonstrates the applicability of the approach.