The Unified Modeling Language (UML) is an evolutionary general-purpose, tool-supported, and industry-standardized (OMG) modeling language for specifying, visualizing, constructing, and documenting the artifacts of a system-intensive process. "Guide to Applying the UML" offers a practical bridge between tutorials and reference works, demonstrating how all of the elements of the UML fit together holistically and cohesively. It closes the gap between the UML and process using a ¿roadmap¿ that addresses the key decision points and their relationships, providing a comprehensive framework. The focus is on rules of usage and principles of composition, style guidelines, practical real-world examples, and a tool-, process-, and technology-independent roadmap for effectively and successfully applying the UML. Topics and features: * Essential rules for using the UML and composing UML models are collated around important UML constructs *Presents a broad introduction to applying the UML, without having to prematurely adopt a particular process *Provides detailed examples, enabling readers to make informed decisions when modeling across the system development life cycle *Demonstrates how UML elements are related and how the UML supports traceability and scales for the life cycle process *Clear, well-developed diagrams simplify learning and applying core concepts and techniques With its focused, yet highly accessible approach, this guide strikes an integrated balance between UML rules and practices. It is an authoritative and comprehensive reference for software practitioners and professionals involved in the design, development, and management of UML-related software projects. About the author: Sinan Si Alhir is a highly respected consultant and has extensive information systems/technology experience, and breadth and depth in all phases of the system development life cycle. With experience in both high- and low-level project work, and broad and deep knowledge of technology and methodology, he endeavors to deliver quality solution-oriented results within various application domains using a multitude of technologies and approaches. He specializes in object-orientation, methodology/process, the Unified Modeling Language (UML), and various other disciplines and subjects, and focuses on empowering organizations to benefit from their application.