Aligning Models with Their Realization through Model-based Systems Engineering

TL;DR

This paper introduces a three-step method using model-based systems engineering to align models with their actual implementations, improving Business-IT alignment and ensuring implementations meet business needs.

Contribution

It presents a novel approach combining reference models, scenario-specific models, and integrated run logic to better align system models with real-world implementations.

Findings

Demonstrated on maritime object detection example

Facilitates seamless integration of models and implementation

Enhances Business-IT alignment

Abstract

In this paper, we propose a method for aligning models with their realization through the application of model-based systems engineering. Our approach is divided into three steps. (1) Firstly, we leverage domain expertise and the Unified Architecture Framework to establish a reference model that fundamentally describes some domain. (2) Subsequently, we instantiate the reference model as specific models tailored to different scenarios within the domain. (3) Finally, we incorporate corresponding run logic directly into both the reference model and the specific models. In total, we thus provide a practical means to ensure that every implementation result is justified by business demand. We demonstrate our approach using the example of maritime object detection as a specific application (specific model / implementation element) of automatic target recognition as a service reoccurring in various forms (reference model element). Our approach facilitates a more seamless integration of models and implementation, fostering enhanced Business-IT alignment.