Applying Black-Box Testing to Model Transformations in the Model Driven Architecture Context

Abstract

Testing model transformations has played a leading role with the dissemination of MDA in software development processes. Software testing based on black-box testing, together with the "category partitioning" method, can be efficiently used in order to conduct the verification of model transformations. This study employs software testing techniques to an ATL model transformation in the MDA context and points out their benefits. The black-box testing method was adapted to the MT-PROAPES model transformation based on profiles and platform models. The platform models define the range of input models of the MT-PROAPES and are used for the creation of the test cases. The test cases were selected so as to meet certain requirements and increase the ability to detect errors in the model transformation. This approach makes the test process more agile and does not require any abstraction of behavioral properties of the transformations. The field of transformation testing and verification still faces significant challenges and requires a lot of research. Although having some limitations, black-box testing conforms to various situations, besides allowing its integration with other test strategies.