Goal Modeling without Stress: An Empirical Study of User Engagement

Our research explores the approach of having the researcher/facilitator create the model for discussion rather than expecting the subject matter experts who may know the process well, but are not proficient with the model’s notation. This paper presents the design, approach, and preliminary findings from a case study (using two different processes) where a group of subject matter experts were introduced to goal-oriented modeling by way of having the facilitator model the process upon reading the detailed textual process documentation and gathering input in the form of a survey prior to showing the model to the group. This study aims to illustrate the benefits of having a facilitator who is comfortable with the models to enable the discussion with subject matter experts to focus on the benefits and value of the information expressed through the models by removing any obstacle or stresses due to a participant’s discomfort or unfamiliarity with modeling.