Model-based Tool Support for the Development of Visual Editors - A Systematic Mapping Study

Abstract

Visual Domain Specific Languages play a fundamental role in the development of model-driven software. The increase in this type of visual languages and the inherent complexity as regards the development of graphical editors for them has, in recent years, led to the emergence of several tools that provide technical support for this task. Most of these tools are based on the use of models and increase the level of automation of software development, which are the basic principles of Model Driven Engineering. This paper therefore reviews the main features, potential advantages and current limitations of the main tools that exist for the development of graphical editors for visual DSLs.