ArgoUML

ArgoUML is the leading open-source UML modeling tool and includes support for all standard UML diagrams. It runs on any Java platform and is available in ten languages.

ArgoUML is an open-source UML modeling tool that enables software developers, architects, and designers to create detailed UML diagrams for various purposes, including software design, system analysis, and documentation. Developed in Java, the app is cross-platform, making it compatible with Windows, macOS, and Linux operating systems.

The app is a pure Java open source UML CASE (Computer-Aided Software Engineering) tool that provides cognitive support for object-oriented design. The tool is written entirely in Java and uses the Java Foundation Classes. ArgoUML is compliant with the OMG Standard for UML 1.4. The core model repository is an implementation of the Java Metadata Interface (JMI) which directly supports MOF and uses the machine-readable version of the UML 1.4 specification provided by the OMG.

Highlights

Standard UML Metamodel
The app is compliant with the OMG Standard for UML 1.4. The core model repository is an implementation of the Java Metadata Interface (JMI) which directly supports MOF and uses the machine-readable version of the UML 1.4 specification provided by the OMG.

UML Diagram Support
It uses GEF, the UCI Graph Editing Framework to edit UML diagrams.

XMI Support
XMI is an XML based exchange format between UML tools. Argo UML uses this as a standard saving mechanism so that easy interchange with other tools and compliance with open standards are secured. Additionally, exporting the model to XMI is possible.

Several diagram export formats
Diagrams can be saved as GIF, PNG, PostScript, Encapsulated PS, PGML, and SVG.

Others Features
Advanced diagram editing and Zoom, OCL Support, Forward Engineering, Reverse Engineering /Jar/ class file Import, Cognitive Support, Reflection-in-action, and many more.

Main Features

Diagram Types: It supports various UML diagram types, including class diagrams, use case diagrams, sequence diagrams, activity diagrams, and more. This versatility allows users to model different aspects of their software projects.

Code Generation: It offers code generation capabilities, allowing you to generate code from your UML diagrams in multiple programming languages, including Java, C++, and more. This streamlines the development process and ensures consistency between your design and code.

Reverse Engineering: It can also reverse engineer existing code into UML diagrams, helping you understand complex legacy systems and make improvements.

Collaboration: The software facilitates collaboration among team members by supporting version control systems like Git. Multiple users can work on the same project concurrently.

Extensibility: It supports plugins, allowing you to extend its functionality to suit your specific modeling requirements.

Rich Palette: The software provides a rich set of UML elements, such as classes, interfaces, associations, and more, that can be easily dragged and dropped onto your diagrams.

Documentation: You can generate documentation directly from your UML diagrams, helping in project communication and knowledge sharing.

User Interface

ArgoUML's user interface is functional but may appear somewhat dated to users accustomed to more modern design aesthetics. The interface consists of a menu bar, toolbar, diagram workspace, and various panels for navigating your project. While it may not win any design awards, it is efficient and straightforward to navigate once you become familiar with it. The focus is clearly on functionality rather than aesthetics.

Installation and Setup

• Visit the official website or FileHorse
• Download the appropriate installer for your operating system (Windows, macOS, or Linux).
• Follow the installation instructions, which typically involve running the installer and selecting installation options.
• After installation, launch the app and begin using the software.

How to Use

• Create a New Project: Launch the software and create a new project.
• Select a Diagram Type: Choose the type of UML diagram you want to create (e.g., class diagram, use case diagram).
• Add Elements: Drag and drop UML elements from the palette onto the diagram canvas.
• Connect Elements: Use appropriate connectors to establish relationships between elements.
• Edit Properties: Double-click on elements to edit their properties and add details.
• Generate Code or Documentation: Depending on your needs, you can generate code or documentation from your UML diagrams.

FAQ

Is ArgoUML FREE to use?
Yes, ArgoUML is open-source and completely 100% FREE to use.

Can I import existing code into ArgoUML for reverse engineering?
Yes, It supports reverse engineering, allowing you to import existing code and generate UML diagrams from it.

What programming languages are supported for code generation?
It supports code generation in various programming languages, including Java, C++, and more.

Is there a limit to the size of the projects I can work on with ArgoUML?
While the tool is capable of handling complex projects, its performance may degrade on very large projects. It's advisable to split such projects into smaller modules.

Can I collaborate with team members using ArgoUML?
Yes, It supports collaboration through version control systems like Git, allowing multiple team members to work on the same project concurrently.

Alternatives

Visual Paradigm: A versatile UML modeling tool that caters to various modeling notations and offers extensive collaboration and project management features.

Pricing

The app is completely FREE, making it an attractive option for individuals, small teams, and open-source projects with budget constraints.

System Requirements

• Operating System: Windows, macOS, Linux
• RAM: 1 GB (2 GB recommended)
• Disk Space: 200 MB available space
• Java Runtime Environment (JRE) 8 or later

PROS

• Open-source and free of charge.
• Supports various UML diagram types.
• Code generation and reverse engineering capabilities.
• Cross-platform compatibility.
• Extensible through plugins.
• Collaboration support with version control.

CONS

• This product is not developed actively anymore.
• User interface design may feel dated.
• Learning curve for beginners in UML modeling.
• Performance may degrade on very large projects.

Conclusion

ArgoUML is a robust and free UML modeling tool that offers a comprehensive set of features for software designers and architects. While its user interface may not be the most visually appealing, its functionality and flexibility make it a valuable choice for those seeking an open-source UML modeling solution.

With support for various diagram types, code generation, and collaboration features, it can be a reliable companion for software development and system analysis projects. Whether you're an individual developer or part of a small team, it can help you visualize and document your software systems effectively.

Note: Requires Java Runtime Environment.

Also Available: Download ArgoUML for Mac