Formal paradigm to systems development, lifecycle support, and evolution
Combines simple OPDs (diagrams) with OPL (constrained natural language)
Basic building blocks:
object — thing that exists or has potential of existence, physically or mentally,
process — pattern of transformation that object undergoes,
state — situation object can be at
[Reflective] methodology refers to system lifecycle as system evolution
In OPM, “process” is a reserved word; therefore, “system process” is used
System Developing process (SD1) contains three main stages, each can be “zoomed” of which can be further zoomed
Requirement Specifying
Analyzing & Developing
Implementing
[also, Using & Implementing stage]
Visual models tool- and vendor-specific (see Tool Support below)
Tool Support
Tool support for OPM is provided via OPCAT Software Solutions. This product suite supports the concepts related to the OPM metamodel for the system development process, including modeling support of the System Diagram (SD).
The commercial OPCAT tool suite has a configurable template for a number of types of document artifacts, including but not limited to System Overview, The Current State, Future Goals, Business or Program Constraints, and Hardware and Software Requirements. In addition, OPCAT has facilities for animated simulation, requirements management, and other advanced features.
Offering/Availability
Commercial OPCAT software for OPM systems modeling, systems engineering and lifecycle support, as well as professional services, and education & training can be obtained via: http://www.opcat.com/.