views:

446

answers:

5

I find UML hard to create quickly.
I'd like to put my ideas more quickly, especially for small open sourced projects.
If it was big enough I'd bother with UML but the project is too small for this kind of thing.
I don't want yet another tool that will make me think "nehh I'll do it later".
Any suggestions?

+2  A: 

You could use a blog (WordPress is quick) or a mind map (here's one free on Sourceforge)

samoz
I am using FreeMind but can it be good to design systems?
the_drow
If you can figure out a productive way to use it in can. By that I mean that if you are disciplined in using it frequently, by the end of your project, you will have tons of notes about architecture, ideas for improvement, ideas for where to expand, and the beginnings of formal documentation.It will take a little getting used to the workflow with one of these tools, but if you find UML to be too cumbersome, this is probably a valid alternative.
samoz
A: 

I use Backpack from 37signals for many years. You can open free account there. Here is the link http://www.backpackit.com/

eugener
It's not free.We're talking about open source projects.
the_drow
It is free! Free accounts are available athttps://signup.37signals.com/backpack/free/signup/new
eugener
@the_drow Its free but no free software, thats a difference. You asked for none of both.
atamanroman
+5  A: 

UML is not a tool, it's a language.

If you want a tool that is quick and easy, I'd recommend a whiteboard. If you need a permanent copy of your design, take a photo of the whiteboard.

chimp
In my company we have whiteboards which can scan their selfs and print out a copy (sadly b/w). Im sure there are more modern products out there :)
atamanroman
+2  A: 

UML itself is a specification of a language that is intended to ease communication. It can be used differently, or for different purposes. Martin Fowler suggests some Uml-modes. The main uses are the blueprint the Sketch and the Language mode.

I favor to use the Sketch sice it gives you the freedom to use some diagram or not. Just as you like.

schoetbi
+1  A: 

For me, UML somehow always seemed to complicate things more than help them. However, I found yUML to work perfectly for quick sketches just like the ones you mention.

Domchi
+1 for mentioning yUML!
Johann Gerell