Modelio — The Complete Guide: Free UML and BPMN Modelling and Architecture Documentation
Modelio is an open-source modelling tool that combines, in one environment, UML for software and systems design and BPMN for process modelling. Extra capabilities come as modules you install as needed. It runs on Windows and Linux.
Modelio
Modeliosoft (Modelio Open Source)
Open-source UML and BPMN modelling, with extensions for SysML and ArchiMate and code generation. For architecture documentation and system design.
Get it from the vendorWhat you get
- Full UML — class, component, sequence, state, deployment and use-case diagrams.
- BPMN — modelling workflows, approvals and information flow in an organisation.
- Extension modules — SysML, ArchiMate for enterprise architecture and requirements management.
- Code generation — creating a code skeleton from the model, for example in Java.
- Document generation — producing tidy documentation straight from the model.
How it differs from similar tools
Compared with Papyrus, Modelio is easier to learn and suits a mix of software and business processes. Compared with Capella, it does not impose a working method. The open-source edition is free; the company behind it also sells commercial editions and services, which ordinary work does not require.
Related tools
For full, standards-compliant SysML — Eclipse Papyrus. For systems engineering with the Arcadia method — Capella. For quick diagrams from text — PlantUML.
Eclipse Papyrus
Eclipse Foundation
An open-source UML and SysML modelling environment with diagram editors and profiles, for requirements, architecture and model-driven design.
Get it from the vendor
Capella
Eclipse Foundation (originated at Thales)
Model-based systems engineering with the Arcadia method: from operational analysis to physical architecture. Used in aerospace, rail and automotive.
Get it from the vendor
PlantUML
PlantUML project
Diagrams from text — sequence, state, component and Gantt diagrams written as code and kept under version control.
Get it from the vendor
diagrams.net (draw.io)
JGraph
A full diagram editor in the browser, with no account required.
Get it from the vendorThe bottom line
Modelio is a balanced modelling tool for documenting architecture and processes without a heavy learning curve. Open source and completely free, including for commercial use.