MoT: A Model-Driven Low-Code Approach for Simplifying Cloud-of-Things Application Development

TL;DR

This paper presents MoT, a model-driven low-code framework that simplifies cloud-of-things application development, making it more accessible, efficient, and adaptable through a UML profile tailored for IoT and cloud integration.

Contribution

It introduces a novel UML-based, model-driven approach with low-code principles specifically designed for CoT development, addressing interoperability and automation challenges.

Findings

MoT reduces development complexity and accelerates deployment.

Users with limited IoT experience found MoT accessible and useful.

Case studies confirm MoT's feasibility and positive impact on development efficiency.

Abstract

The integration of cloud computing and the Internet of Things (IoT) is essential for scalable, intelligent systems. However, developing cloud-of-things (CoT) applications remains challenging. It requires significant technical expertise and lacks standardized, model-driven methodologies. Current approaches fail to ensure interoperability, automation, and efficiency. This study introduces the Model of Things (MoT), a model-based approach that incorporates low-code principles to simplify CoT development. MoT reduces technical barriers by providing a custom UML profile designed for IoT and cloud services. To evaluate MoT, we conducted a case study and a Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) questionnaire. The results confirmed MoT's feasibility, demonstrating that it streamlines CoT application development and deployment. Users found MoT accessible, even with limited IoT experience, and reported high perceived ease of use and usefulness. Qualitative feedback highlighted MoT's ability to reduce complexity and speed up development. MoT offers a promising, model-driven solution for CoT application development. By lowering entry barriers and promoting automation, it enhances both efficiency and flexibility. This study represents a step toward a more user-friendly framework, enabling broader adoption of CoT technologies.