Architecture-based visualisation of computer based systems

Architecture is a central concept in the engineering of computer based systems. Given a standard architectural representation, the architecture of systems can be discussed, drawn, reasoned about and classified. Complex architectures may benefit from visualisation. Currently, tools that visualise architectures do so in two-dimensions. Above and beyond visualising the form (or structure) of the architecture in three dimensions, other characteristics of the architecture (e.g. Modularity, Performance, Evolvability, and Openness) can be shown through the visualisation. This paper focuses on the "drawing" of architectures or what is referred to as Architectural Visualisation.