ModeltoModel

ModeltoModel, often abbreviated as M2M, denotes the process of transforming a model defined by one meta-model into another model defined by a different meta-model. It is a central activity in model-driven engineering (MDE), enabling models to be reinterpreted, migrated, or integrated across tools and platforms.

In practice, M2M transformations are rule-based or transformation-language driven. A typical M2M workflow includes a source model, a target metamodel, a transformation specification, and the transformation engine. The specification maps elements and relationships from the source to the target, possibly creating intermediate representations, preserving traceability, and validating constraints. Transformations can be forward, backward, or bidirectional, and may be incremental or complete.

Strategies include declarative approaches (pattern-based mappings, query-like rules) and imperative approaches (scripts). Popular domains use languages such as QVT, ATL, or Epsilon, but many toolchains offer custom DSLs. The correctness and usefulness of an M2M transformation depend on precise metamodel definitions, well-defined mapping semantics, and robust testing.

Applications include model migration when metamodels evolve, interoperability between tools, model-based code generation, and simulation or analysis pipelines.

Critiques of M2M transformations highlight complexity, the risk of semantic mismatch, version drift between metamodels, and the need for governance and validation to ensure reliability. The field emphasizes traceability, testability, and interoperability as key factors for successful transformations.