| UML Tool Evaluation |
| The first rule of UML tool evaluation is to understand
that each tool implements only a subset of UML and adds its own extensions. In fact UML
both allows and encourages this! So the only real way to evaluate a tool for serious use
is to determine what you need and find a tool to fit. Here are some things to think about
when evaluating the tool: |
- What parts of UML you will you use or not use?
- How will the model will be structured?
- How will a large model be broken down and change managed over the lifetime of the
application?
- Do you need code generation and how good is it really? e.g. can you integrate all
your libraries into it?
|
| Company/Tool |
Evaluation Demo Info |
*Cost |
**Strengths and Weaknesses |
| IBM Rational Rose |
Click here |
$2500 upwards |
Open and flexible UML tool with large model
decomposition and change management - essential for large, long-term projects. No longer seriously maintained. From the originators of UML. |
| SparxSystems - Enterprise Architect |
Click
here |
$95 to $335 |
Very competent low-cost clone of Rose with useful
additions. Handles large projects, multi-user, code generation with editable
templates and integrates with change management software. Brilliant HTML model generation. |
| No Magic Inc - MagicDraw UML |
Click
here |
€125 upwards |
Competent and sophisticated low-cost java application. Sufficient for most requirements. Can be a bit slow. |
| Visual UML |
Click
here |
$495 to $995 |
Comprehensive middle priced package. Slightly quirky. |
| Microsoft Visio Professional |
Click
here
Click here |
$495 |
Microsoft's generic drawing package. Does a reasonable
job with UML. 'Integrates' with Visual Studio. Can't decompose the model for multi-user and change management. |
| SmartDraw Professional |
Click
here |
$129 to get the UML symbols |
Generic drawing package with UML diagram support.
Somewhat limited. |
| Argo UML |
Click
here |
Entirely FREE |
OK as an introductory UML tool. Slightly strange model
structure. Needs JavaWebStart. |
| If you have any comments
on the tool guide, or would like to suggest a tool for inclusion,
together with your thoughts about it, please let us know by email.
|
| *Cost - pricing is a guide only and you should
always contact the manufacturer or local distributor to establish the their current offer
to you. **Strengths and Weaknesses - all the comments expressed in this
section are entirely subjective and opinion only. |
