Towards a framework of techniques for enabling semantics-driven secondary notation in conceptual models

Regardless whether a standard language or a domain-specific one is employed for enterprise modelling, during modelling activities the interaction between the user and the modelling environment is not limited anymore to a static canvas. Consequently, notations that have been designed on the basis of semiotic principles under the assumption of a static 2D “drawing surface” (not necessarily software) can nowadays be subjected to automated enhancements commonly known as “secondary notation”. This is a form of notational variability that allows prescribed deviations from a default (possibly standard) static notation. It is commonly provided in programming environments, with the goal of highlighting elements or to change notation in order to reveal some semantic or contextual aspect. We investigate several layers on which this variability can be ensured in modelling environments, considering the building blocks of a modelling method artefact, and propose a set of techniques that could inspire a framework on semantics-notation dependencies and could be adopted as requirements for next-generation meta-modelling platforms that would adopt secondary notation as a first-class concern rather than as an afterthought for ornamental purposes.