USE_NEXT is a redesign and modernisation project based on USE (UML-based Specification Environment), an open-source system for the specification and validation of information systems using a subset of UML and OCL.
The purpose of USE_NEXT is not to replace the original domain idea of USE, but to reuse the core and build a clearer and more maintainable architecture around it, with a particular focus on maintainability and security. While USE is the existing reference system and technical foundation, USE_NEXT represents the new architectural vision derived from its analysis.
USE is the original open-source project maintained in the useocl/use repository.
It provides the established functional basis for modelling, checking, and validating UML/OCL-based specifications.
The goal of USE_NEXT is to define and document a future-oriented architecture for the next evolution of USE. This includes analysing the current system, identifying architectural and security-related weaknesses, and deriving a structured target concept for a modern implementation.
USE_NEXT is currently in an analysis and design phase. At this stage, the repository primarily contains conceptual work, architectural documentation, and project guidelines rather than a finished implementation. Further technical decisions and implementation steps will be based on these documented foundations.
The documentation in this repository is organised by topic so that architectural decisions, security considerations, and implementation-related guidance can be accessed quickly.
For developers, the most relevant starting point is the set of project guidelines. These documents summarise the architectural principles, security constraints, and implementation expectations that should be considered before making changes or adding new components.
The architecture documentation defines the technical foundation and target architecture of USE_NEXT. It captures the main architectural goals, decisions, and building blocks and serves as the basis for the further development of the system.
Security was considered from the beginning as a foundation for the architecture of USE_NEXT. The relevant risks and preventive measures are documented in detail in security_risks_and_prevention.md and used as a basis for the architectural decisions.
- USE = existing UML/OCL-based specification and validation environment
- USE_NEXT = modernisation and redesign project based on USE
When working on the project, developers should review the guidelines first and then continue with the topic-specific documentation relevant to the task at hand.