Stereotypes and Classes

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We previously talked about stereotypes for relationships in use case diagrams. Classes can also have stereotypes. As before, a stereotype provides the capability to create a new kind of modeling element. Here, we can create new kinds of classes. Some common stereotypes for a class are entity, boundary, control, utility, and exception.

The stereotype for a class is shown below the class name enclosed in guillemets (<< >>). If desired, a graphic icon or a specific color may be associated with a stereotype. In Rational Rose, icons for the Rational Unified Process stereotypes of control, entity, and boundary are supplied. These stereotypes are shown in Figure 4-4 along with an example of a class with a stereotype of exception.

Figure 4-4. Classes with Stereotypes

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