The Howdy Glossary

The ATLAS Transformation Language (ATL) is a domain-specific language designed for transforming models within the Model-Driven Engineering (MDE) framework. Integrated into the Eclipse Modeling Framework (EMF) project, ATL uses a QVT-like model transformation approach with higher-order rules. Users define transformations through abstract rules that match and transform elements from source to target metamodels, promoting modularity and reusability by enabling nested or higher-order rule calls. The language offers both graphical and textual syntax support within its development environment on the Eclipse platform.

Developed by a research team led by Frédéric Jouault and Jean Bézivin at INRIA in France, ATL emerged from the ATLAS MegaModeling research project aimed at advancing Model-Driven Development (MDD). This initiative sought to explore tools and methods for constructing complex software systems using MDD principles. As part of this effort, ATL was introduced as a specialized language for model transformation, gaining significant traction within the broader MDE community due to its effectiveness in facilitating intricate transformations while maintaining flexibility and clarity.

ATL faces competition from other model transformation languages such as QVT, Xtend, and Acceleo but sets itself apart through unique features like its higher-order rule capability which enhances modularity and reusability. By supporting abstract rules that specify element matching between source and target metamodels along with nested rule calling capabilities, ATL delivers an organized transformation process. Additionally, its integrated environment provides both graphical editors for intuitive specifications and textual syntax support for more detailed transformations. These strengths collectively position ATL as a versatile tool catering to software developers, system architects, and MDE specialists engaged in diverse model transformation tasks within the EMF ecosystem.