scope:

The present document describes a methodological approach to the use of object-orientation, and, in particular the Unified Modelling Language (UML), in the ETSI standards-making process. The purpose of the document is to establish a set of guidelines that provide the user with a framework within which the concepts of the UML can be used effectively in the development of ETSI standards.

The guidelines presented in the present document are intended primarily for use in the production of standards specifying communications protocols. However, they could be applied in part to the use of UML to other types of standard where this is deemed to be appropriate and beneficial.

The present document presents a straightforward process for using the UML from the collection of the initial broad requirements through to the point where it is necessary to begin describing detailed behaviour.

The application of the UML to the development of a protocol standard does not preclude the use of the Specification and Description Language (SDL). The methodological approach described in the document can be used in conjunction with the guidelines specified for the use of SDL given in ETR 298 [2], EG 201 015 [3], EG 201 383 [4] and EG 202 106 [5].