ECOS Modeling: A Modeling Tool, Repository for Models and Evolution Analysis of Software Ecosystems

• Francisco Victor da S. Pinheiro UFC http://orcid.org/0000-0002-5693-0499
• Emanuel F. Coutinho UFC https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2233-7109
• Ronier da S. Lima UFC https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6838-2226
• Maria Erilane L. da Silva UFC https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5624-9356
• Carla I. M. Bezerra UFC https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5879-5067
• Rossana M. C. Andrade UFC https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0186-2994

DOI: https://doi.org/10.5753/sbsi.2025.246501

Resumo

Context: Software Ecosystems (SECO) are a set of actors and components that function as a unit, relating to each other based on a common interest in providing solutions or services to the software industry. Problem: For a better visualization and understanding of SECOs, recent studies propose modeling the network formed by them. However, there is still no formalized modeling standard for this area, and there is a lack of tools, approaches, and notations that assist modeling. Solution: In this context, this work aims to present an evolution of the SECO modeling tool, called ECOS Modeling, in its version 4.0. In this version, some new features were added, such as saving the registration and login in the tool, saving and sharing the model in the repository, generating an analysis report of the SECO evolution, viewing the numerical data of the model and making the tool available in other languages. IS Theory: General systems theory, specifically the interfaces between different parts of systems and solutions that communicate, exchanging information. These parts can be systems from different institutions that require integration, consisting of Information Systems. Method: The tool evaluation was planned based on the TAM (Technology Acceptance Model), widely used to measure technology acceptance. The process involved the participation of 49 experts with experience in the areas of software and systems engineering. The selection of experts sought to ensure diversity of profiles, including academics and industry professionals, to broaden the scope and relevance of the results. Summary of Results: The evaluation results demonstrated strong validation of the tool, with experts rating it as highly useful in terms of usability, functionality, and alignment with requirements. The majority (73%) found the tool very useful, 71% stated that it fully met the proposed requirements, and 69% reported ease in finding information and resources. The tool’s navigation was considered clear and easy by 55%, while 49% always knew their location and next steps within the tool. In addition, 55% of experts found the interface visually appealing and 45% reported low mental effort when using it. The study also revealed that 55% used modeling tools frequently and 63% worked with tools saving models in repositories, reinforcing the relevance and suitability of the tool for its target audience. Contributions and Impact in the IS area: As an emerging area, the results contribute to Information Systems by providing a practical tool for modeling, analyzing and evolving SECO. The main contribution is to fill the gap of a formal standard for SECO modeling, allowing the visualization and sharing of ecosystem dynamics, in addition to offering detailed reports that support the understanding of its evolution and identification of deficiencies.

Palavras-chave: Software Ecosystem, Software Supply Network, Modeling

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