Principles for modeling language design

Modeling languages, like programming languages, need to be designed if they are to be practical, usable, accepted, and of lasting value. We present principles for the design of modeling languages. To arrive at these principles, we consider the intended use of modeling languages. We conject that the principles are applicable to the development of new modeling languages, and for improving the design of existing modeling languages that have evolved, perhaps through a process of unification. The principles are illustrated and explained by several examples, drawing on object-oriented and mathematical modeling languages.