The Pattern Instance Notation: A simple hierarchical visual notation for the dynamic visualization and comprehension of software patterns

Design patterns are a common tool for developers and architects to understand and reason about a software system. Visualization techniques for patterns tend to be either highly theoretical in nature or based on a structural view of a system's implementation. The Pattern Instance Notation is a simple notation technique for visualizing design patterns and other abstractions of software engineering. While based on a formal representation of design patterns, PIN is a tool for comprehension or reasoning which requires no formal training or study, and it is suitable for the programmer or designer without a theoretical background. PIN is hierarchical in nature and compactly encapsulates abstractions that may be spread widely across a system in a concise graphical format, while allowing for repeated unveiling of deeper layers of complexity and interaction on demand. It is designed to be used in either a dynamic visualization tool, or as a static representation for documentation and as a teaching aid.

► PIN is a graphical notation for design patterns aimed at practitioners and educators.
► PIN exploits hierarchical formalisms while remaining simple to use and informal.
► PIN can be used as a supplemental annotation to other notations such as UML.
► PIN can be used by itself to describe the interior hierarchy of design patterns.
► PINboxes provide multiple levels of abstraction simultaneously and on demand.