eXtreme Modeling: an approach to agile model-based development

Model-based development (MBD) is the development of software systems using graphical and textual models such as UML class diagrams. MBD and related approaches such as Model-driven development (MDD) have had some success within specific application domains, such as the automotive industry. Agile software development approaches such as Scrum and eXtreme Programming (XP) have been widely adopted in many different industry sectors. These approaches emphasise iterative development and close customer collaboration. eXtreme Modeling (XM) is a model-based development analogue of eXtreme Programming: it is an agile development approach based on the use of software models to specify and synthesise software systems. In this paper we look at the track record of agile and model-based development, and we consider the case for combining these approaches into XM to obtain benefits from both approaches: rapid automated software generation, lightweight development processes, and direct customer involvement. An example application of XM in the financial services domain is described.