This paper discusses ways that MDD lays the groundwork for an integrated design flow that addresses the complexity challenge once and for all.

Thanks to recent advances in modeling languages and automation, model-driven development can now be extended across the hierarchical levels of system design. System integration, in virtual form, no longer needs to wait until physical subsystems are ready. At each level of design, models provide the ability to verify the design much earlier than waiting for actual HW/SW implementation.

MDD methodologies have been pioneered and proven over decades. Integrating MDD methodologies into the platform development life cycle has the potential to significantly reduce risks to schedule, cost and quality for system integrators. With the astute application of the MDD approach, the 11th hour is no longer a threatening milestone in the life cycle of a development program.