Archive for January, 2010
Model-Driven Code Generation Process
The model-driven code generation process is really simple.
You create a model, for example using UML. Next, you feed a hungry generator with your model in a format it can digest. That could be XMI.
The model-driven generator (MDG) transforms your model into code using a template of some kind. Here it outputs C# code that can be compiled into an assembly using a c#-compiler. You also will need some framework or platform to run your code.
The hard part is creating a good model.
Silverlight & WCF RIA Services
Yes, I like Microsoft Silverlight 3.0+. Why?
Not because of its flashy look. Not because of the abundance of (custom) controls, for example as showcased by the Blacklight Showcase or Microsoft Silverlight Toolkit.
Even not because of Moonlight, for bringing Silverlight to our nerdy linux friends
Nope, it is because of the introduction of .NET RIA Services which enables you to expose your business logic and data through WCF technology.
I like this client-side polish for its solid data-driven architecture.
SmartDraw vs. Dynamic Draw!
To be honest with you: I am a Visionist.
I really like Microsoft Visio. I do. I use it a lot, but from a functional perspective I use a very narrow portion in respect to different diagrams available.
I almost always start with a Flowchart and extend it into something I like. Before I discovered StarUML, I modeled UML diagrams using Visio Stencil and Template for UML 2.2
Thus it was time to do some research i.e. query “alternative to visio”. Of course, there is Dia. To be honest with you, I find it a little bit… premature. I looks even premature on Ubuntu.
Other candidates are Dynamic Draw and SmartDraw. Dynamic Draw is open source, and for SmartDraw you need an open wallet.
First look at Dynamic Draw.
Although I find the user interface a little bit harsh, I do like Dynamic Draw. It has a rich functionality. It even has the ability to “Borrow Shapes from Visio”. No kidding.
A harsh, but perfect drawing suite.
The reverse is true with SmartDraw.
It has a really appealing user interface and a very large amount of shapes you can draw with. It also has a WPF-look. Nice, nice, nice. And you can import Visio, but you must have Visio installed.
I almost bought it, so slick it is….
But – unfortunately – it sucks. I hate to pay for buggy programs…
Just an example:
