Concept: Kinds of Models
Models can be used for different purposes and therefore may emphasize different kinds of content and structure.
Relationships
Main Description

The Unified Modeling Language (UML) is the primary language for the representation of models

  • Computationally Independent Model (CIS)
    This model is used to represent the functionality independent of specific design or implementation. This is usually the same as the Use Case Model.
  • Platform Independent Model (PIM)
    This model is used to represent the functionality of the system and is constructed with structural and behavioral specification goals in mind. This is what used to be called the "analysis" or "essential" model.
  • Platform Specific Model (PSM)
    This model is consistent with the functionality of its corresponding PIM, but adds technologies, architectures, design patterns, and solution technologies to optimize the execution of the PIM for a specific intent and/or target platform
  • Platform Specific Implementation (PSI)
    This is the source code generated from the PSM which is then compiled and run on the target platform.