| This thesis describes the Visual Multi Model (VMM) approach which provides a practical framework for an integrated CASE environment with graphic user interface. Based on the ECMA reference model, Zachman's Framework of Information System Architecture and existing CASE technology, we synthesize and enhance several existing approaches to develop the VMM framework. VMM is composed of data management services, process management services and policy management services. VMM supports many different models, including the relational, nested E-R, object-oriented, data flow, control flow, Petri-Net, temporal, and event/trigger models. The data service in VMM is developed based on the object-oriented paradigm and includes support for versioning and multiple representation of objects. The visual language of VMM enables users to depict diagrams to explore different features of objects and collaboration among processes, and EUPM allows to define the dynamic behavior of process objects. The policy model in VMM could be utilized to enforce objects, monitor the execution of processes, and respond to specific events and exceptions. The advanced graphic facilities in VMM assist users to easily define objects, decompose complex objects, explore the hierarchy of objects, browse through objects. |
