documentapplications and software systems, which are implemented withcomponents and object-oriented programming languages, such as Java,C++, and Visual Basic. UML incorporates the object-orientedcommunity's consensus on core modeling concepts and provides astandard way for developers to communicate the details of systemdesign and development. In addition to object-oriented modeling ofapplications, UML is also used for business-process modeling, datamodeling, and XML modeling.Purpose of modeling: Models for software systems are as importantas having a blueprint for a large building, or an outline for abook. Good models enhance communication among project teams andassure architectural soundness. The more complex the softwaresystem, the more important it is to have models that accuratelydescribe the system and can be understood by everyone. UML helpsprovide this via a standard for graphical diagrams. Just like anarchitect can understand the notations on any blueprint, UMLenables software engineers and business managers to understand thedesign of any software system, even if the original designers havelong left the company.Organization behind it: Object Management Group (OMG)(www.omg.org). (UML Resource Page at OMG Web site iswww.omg.org/uml.) The OMG produces and maintains the UML standard,an internationally recognized standard. The OMG is an openmembership, not-for-profit consortium that produces and maintainscomputer industry specifications for interoperable enterpriseapplications. Its membership roster (about 800) includes just aboutevery large company in the computer industry and hundreds ofsmaller ones. Most of the companies that shape enterprise andInternet computing are represented on the OMG's Board ofDirectors.Companies that contributed to the UML Standard: Realizing that UMLwould be strategic to their business, the following companiescontributed their ideas to the first UML standard: DigitalEquipment Corp, HP, i-Logix, IntelliCorp, IBM, ICON Computing, MCI,Microsoft, Oracle, Rational Rose, TI, and Unisys.Companies that use UML: It is safe to say that all Fortune 1000companies are currently using UML, or are moving toward UML tomodel and design their applications and systems. This includescompanies from all vertical industries, from Coca Cola to WarnerBrothers, from CVS Pharmacy to Lockhead Martin Aerospace. You namethe company - if they have an IT department, they are using UML.

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