Context-based Modeling – Conceptualization of a Novel Modeling Approach and Application for the Design of Business Documents

In this paper a novel reuse approach called context-based modeling is proposed and applied for the modeling of business documents. Business documents constitute mutual agreements, often legally binding between business partners. Already existing document standards reduce the efforts of implementing data exchange. However, the specific properties of an organization entail a need for adaptation. We show that available reuse approaches do not support this appropriately. Context-based modeling is proposed based on the reuse mechanisms aggregation, restriction, and specialization. Context-based modeling aims at both, minimal preparation of reuse combined with a high degree of guidance to create suitable models. The proposal is conceptually explored and practically applied to evaluate the feasibility and efficiency of the approach