4 Different Representations for Use Cases in OMG SysML/UML

This 6 minute video uses one of the example models from my 3 day Mastering MBSE with OMG SysML and IBM Rational Rhapsody training. I actually speak!

It shows 4 different forms for how use cases might be represented in SysML or UML: namely structured text, an activity diagram, an interaction model with sequence diagrams, and as an executable state machine model. The cool thing is that we’re free to use whatever you like. Neither SysML nor the UML specify how a use case shall look. The main thing to consider is that use cases take on a journey from analysis to design! Through-out this journey we will meet different people with different needs and levels of knowledge. We need to consider their needs, recognizing that different stakeholders will have different needs, and that needs will change over time. After all there is little value in building an executable state machine of a system, if a simple review of the use case description can determine that it is not what the customer wants after all.

Rhapsody training updated to 8.2

Yep, it's official. In line with my goal to deliver the most up to date training, all my training has been updated to Rhapsody 8.2 (and what a nice release it is).

Official launch of ExecutableMBSE.com

To better align with the refined mission statement of the business which is "to make executable MBSE simple through the provision of consulting and training services", I've created a new website http://www.executablembse.com/

The focus of this site (http://www.mbsetraining.com/) will remain on generic Rhapsody training & advice while aspects  including the executable MBSE method, and updates to the supporting open-source SysML Helper profile, will be moved to the new website.

Feedback from Rhapsody MBSE training on 15-17th March

Past performance is best indication of future performance. This was the aggregated top 5 feedback from my last training course (where 5 = Strongly agree and 1 = Strongly disagree):

Rhapsody Tip #21 - Display options for ports incl. PortsSingleLabelLayout (Intermediate)

Rhapsody has many properties and display options for how ports are show. This video shows some of these, including a rather cool (and slightly hidden) PortsSingleLabelLayout property. Some advanced ideas are also shown, such as using a stereotype to convey new default properties to a diagram as well as basic usability such as showing or hiding ports from display. Enjoy!

Run as administrator when doing Rhapsody 8.2 installation

Rhapsody 8.2 was released on 8th Dec 2016.

For 8.2 to correctly install you should right-click the setup.exe and choose Run as administrator (it is not sufficient that the user has admin rights to ensure correct installation)

Note also that there is an iFix1 for Rhapsody 8.2 client available on IBM's Fix Central website. If you're forming a deployment package then it may make sense to include this (which is critical if looking to use Jazz/dm with related iFix1, but also to ensure you're up to date with fixes).

Rhapsody Tip #20 - Adding a HyperLinkShortCut list to graphical elements for navigation (Simple)

In IBM Rational Rhapsody version 8.2 (released Dec 2016) to enhance navigation from individual graphic elements in diagrams, you can add a list of shortcuts that are accessible from the title bar of the element. In Rhapsody 8.2, the feature is only available for classes, objects, composite classes, and any "new term" elements based on these elements. It's still useful, however. This super short video shows how to use the Compartment display options to do it.