Usability Assessment of a UML-based Formal Modelling Method Using Cognitive Dimensions Framework

Abstract

Conceptual models communicate the important aspects of a problem domain to stakeholders. The quality of the models is highly dependent on the usability of the modelling method used. This paper presents a survey conducted on a method that integrates the use of a semi-formal notation, namely the Unified Modelling Language (UML) and a formal notation, namely B. The survey assessed the usability of the method by using grounded theory, the Cognitive Dimensions of Notations (CD) framework and several criteria suggested by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). Ten participants responded to the survey. The results suggest that the method is accessible to users when the principles and roles of each notation are obvious and well understood, and when there is strong support from the environment. Based on the findings, a usability profile based on CD for designing a method that integrates semi-formal and formal notations is proposed.