The pragmatics of model-based design refers to the practical aspects of handling graphical system models. This encompasses a range of activities, such as editing, browsing, or simulating models. We believe that the pragmatics of modeling deserves more attention than is has received so far. We also believe that there is the potential for significant productivity enhancements, using technology that is largely already available. We address this research area in the following subprojects:

• KIELER Layout
  A key enabler for enhancing productivity is the capability to automatically and quickly compute the layout of a graphical model, which frees the designer from the burden of manual drawing. Therefore we offer an infrastructure for integration and configuration of automatic layout as well as Java-based implementations of high-quality layout algorithms for use in modeling applications.
• Lightweight Diagrams (KLighD)
  Building on the premise that graphical view are synthesized on-the-fly, this component offers a high-performance model browser that can be adapted to any kind of graph-based representation.
• Structure Based Editing (KSBasE)
  An alternative to editing models in the usual drag-and-drop manner is to define structural operations that can be invoked from a graphical viewer. By updating the view through automatic layout, this approach helps to focus on the underlying semantic model instead of its concrete notation.
• View Management (KIVi)
  Interaction with models is often based on some kind of combination of triggers (e.g. user selection) and effects (e.g. highlighting certain model elements). This component offers a structured interface for defining such combinations.