Processes, methods, and tools in model-based engineering: A qualitative multiple-case study

Research on model-based engineering (MBE) has occasionally touched upon the relationship between development processes and concrete MBE practices. However, the alignment of these elements has rarely been the central focus of these studies. As a result, important questions regarding the alignment of MBE and development processes, as well as the impact of development processes on the utilization and success of MBE, have remained unanswered. To address this research gap, we conducted a multiple-case study involving 14 individuals from nine different companies, conducting a total of 12 interviews. Building upon seven propositions derived from existing literature, our investigation sought to understand how MBE is aligned with the development process and explore the application of MBE in this context. Additionally, we identified challenges and needs in this area. Our findings challenge some previously reported results, such as the perceived conflicts between agile development processes and MBE. Furthermore, we unearthed previously unreported issues, like the importance of considering the perspectives of tool vendors in MBE discussions. Overall, this paper makes a significant contribution by providing a comprehensive and up-to-date perspective on how MBE is integrated into development processes, along with an examination of the social and organizational aspects inherent to these processes. Editor's note: Open Science material was validated by the Journal of Systems and Software Open Science Board.