How are informal diagrams used in software engineering? An exploratory study of open-source and industrial practices

• DOI: 10.1007/s10270-024-01252-3
• Publication Date: 2024-12-20T13:51:33Z
• Authors: Robbert Jongeling; Antonio Cicchetti; Federico Ciccozzi
• Keywords: Exploratory research

Abstract In software engineering practice, models created for communication and documentation are often informal. This limits the applicability of powerful model-driven mechanisms. Understanding motivations use informal diagrams can improve modelling techniques tools, by bringing together benefits both diagramming using languages tools. this paper, we report on an initial exploration effort to investigate in open-source repositories industrial practices. We carried out a repository mining study seeking classified them according what they represent how used. Additionally, describe practices that rely some extent diagramming, as gathered through unstructured interviews with practitioners. compare findings from these data sources discuss used practice.