TOGAF Enterprise implementation question

[MarkBodman]

I'm relatively new to UML but understand how UML is used to model software applications and related activities.

I would like to ask the masses on how you would apply a UML modeling tool to an Enterprise model framework TOGAF Enterprise Architecture version 8.1.  Here is a link to the Open Groups documentation on the framework and my approach: http://www.opengroup.org/architecture/togaf8-doc/arch/p2/p2_intro.htm

The enterprise goal is to migrate a mainframe environment with a few large, custom COBOL applications to a distributed, heterogeneous SOA environment while maintaining the same business functions implemented on the mainframe.  This will take years of development and effort.

1: Capture and model the current functions in the COBOL programs on the mainframe.

2:  Model all systems that have dependencies on the mainframe and where the mainframe is a dependant with their relationships.

3: Model the target environment where the functions reside on new applications that will be built or bought.

4:  Model all systems that have dependencies on the new systems and where the new systems are a dependant with with their relationships.

5:  Compare the relationships between the new and old environments and and identify any gaps in functionality or dependencies.

Keep in mind that this is a model will live and evolve for years where further detail will be added as new applications are written and come into being.

I would like to hear comments and suggestions on how to organize the model using UML constructs and Enterprise Architect.  There are not too many examples similar to what I'm attempting to accomplish.

[thomaskilian]

The Dark Side of the Moon

Not having read the article in too much detail, I'd think that EA will assist you in most of the tasks - if your own requirements for RM tools are not too hard. That is, EA has a variety of tools to support requirements management, but only up to a medium level. For a really big project as you describe, you should consider strong RM tools (I mean the really expensive ones). Maybe you can also have a look at RaQuest (an EA extension; search for that keyword in this forum).

For all modeling aspects, I can recommend EA. You'll hardly find a better tool - especially with that price/performance ratio.

As you are "relatively new to UML" I'd also suggest to hire a consultant with good UML know how for your team.

[mikewhit]

... or spend a couple of days browsing these forums !!

[MarkBodman]

Thanks for getting back to me.

We do have licenses for EA so it is my tool of choice given what I have seen in the features and functionality so far.  In fact we also have competitive tools to choose from, however I do like EA better.

As for the UML expert, I do agree that it would be the ideal thing to do given my level of experience.  I have signed up for a course, but it isn't scheduled until the end of October.  I'm just impatient…  

I have located peers in my organization that know UML, however given their lack of experience at an enterprise level they are unsure of how best to proceed as well.

If anyone has a reference for any model examples of enterprise level design using UML, I would love to see those.

My current plan is to create a nested package structures and treat every element in the diagram as a package and illustrate their relationships as necessary.  Initial prototypes are hopefull, however if I invest the time into the effort of documenting this, I would like to know that it will work well as we evolve the models.

[thomaskilian]

Riding is quite easy if you have someone to help you on the horse