Modelling large-scale information systems using ADLs – An industrial experience report

• We report on the experience gained using an ADL to model a large information system.
• Specialised ADL can have benefits over a general modelling language like UML.
• The ADL's graphical notation plays an important role in its adoption and acceptance.
• Familiar tool support and availability of guide material directly impact uptake.

An organisation that had developed a large information system wanted to embark on a programme that would involve large-scale evolution of it. As a precursor to this, it was decided to create a comprehensive architectural description to capture and understand the system's design. This undertaking faced a number of challenges, including a low general awareness of software modelling and software architecture practices. The approach taken by the software architects tasked with this project included the definition of a simple, very specific, architecture description language. This paper reports our experience of the project and a simple ADL that we created as part of it.