Guest editorial to the special section on ECMFA and ICMT at STAF 2016: modeling and model transformations research in 2016

Model-based engineering (MBE) is an approach to the design, analysis and development of software and systems that relies on exploiting high-level models and computer-based automation to achieve significant boosts in both productivity and quality. Model transformation (MT) is the field where engineers leverage different transformation paradigms (including rule-based transformations, term rewriting and manipulations of objects in general-purpose programming languages) to solve complex transformation problems. Research in these domains covers studies of algorithms, language and design aspects (modularity, composability and parameterization), tools and application domains. The 12th European Conference on Modelling Foundations and Applications (ECMFA) and the 9th International Conference on Theory and Practice of Model Transformations (ICMT) were held as part of STAF 2016 in Vienna, Austria, from July 4, 2016, to July 5, 2016. As STAF events, both conferences focus on practical and foundational advances in software technology