Where Philosophy Meets Technology: Toward Better Modeling Tools

In Model-Driven Engineering (MDE), seamless integration of tools, languages, and processes is crucial for developing domain-specific modeling languages (DSMLs). Effective tools must offer flexibility, support for co-evolution, and minimize complexity, including technical debt. This presentation, inspired by Heidegger's concept of 'ready-to-hand' tools, examines the challenges of creating tools that naturally integrate into developers' workflows. It highlights key enablers—technological and design strategies—that enhance usability, adaptability, and integration. By leveraging these enablers, we can address challenges like language proliferation and workflow disruptions, fostering more effective and accessible MDE tools.