Rhapsody (modeling)
| Company type | Software |
|---|---|
| Industry | Software development, Systems engineering |
| Predecessor | I-Logix Inc. |
| Founded | 1996 |
| Headquarters | United States |
| Products | Graphical modeling tool, Rhapsody Model Manager |
| Owner | IBM |
| Website | www |
IBM Engineering Rhapsody (previously known as Rational Rhapsody) is a graphical modeling tool created by IBM aimed at systems engineers and software developers specializing in real-time and embedded system applications. It facilitates visual modeling through UML and supports code generation in multiple programming languages, including C, C++, Ada, Java, and C#.
The software allows users to capture requirements, construct models adhering to established industry standards such as UML, SysML, AUTOSAR, DoDAF, MODAF, and UPDM. It also provides early validation of system behavior and automates the delivery of structured software solutions.
Rhapsody Model Manager is a web-based application designed to enhance collaboration among project stakeholders and development teams. It hosts Rhapsody models on a centralized server, enabling management of these models within project domains that comply with recognized industry standards. This platform integrates seamlessly with IBM’s Engineering Lifecycle Management (ELM) suite, linking artifacts like requirements (via IBM Engineering Requirements Management DOORS and DOORS Next), change management items (IBM Engineering Workflow Management), and quality assurance processes (IBM Engineering Test Management). The Global Configuration feature coordinates baselines and deliveries across multiple projects and teams within the Collaborative Lifecycle Management (CLM) environment.
History
Initially launched in 1996 by the Israeli company I-Logix Inc., Rhapsody was developed as an object-oriented tool for modeling and executing statecharts, inspired by David Harel's research at the Weizmann Institute of Science. Harel introduced concepts such as hierarchical, parallel, and broadcast statecharts.
In 2006, Swedish firm Telelogic AB acquired I-Logix, positioning Rhapsody for embedded systems markets. After IBM's purchase of Telelogic in 2008, Rhapsody was incorporated into the Rational Software lineup and integrated within IBM’s Rational Systems and Software Engineering offerings.
IBM launched Rational Rhapsody Design Manager in June 2011; by December of the same year, it became part of the IBM Engineering Lifecycle Management suite, improving design collaboration throughout product development cycles.