Changes in UML Distilled

As these revisions go on, I've been trying to keep up by revising UML Distilled with subsequent printings. I've also taken the opportunity to fix errors and make clarifications.

The most dynamic period for keeping up with things was during the first edition of UML Distilled, when we often had to make updates between printings to keep up with the emerging UML standard. The first through fifth printings were based on UML 1.0. Any changes to the UML between these printings were minor. The sixth printing took UML 1.1 into account.

The seventh through tenth printings were based on UML 1.2; the eleventh printing was the first to use UML 1.3. Printings based on versions of the UML after 1.0 have the UML version number on the front cover.

The first though sixth printings of the second edition were based on version 1.3. The seventh printing was the first to take into account the minor changes of version 1.4.

The third edition was launched to update the book with UML 2 (see Table A.1). In the rest of this appendix, I summarize the major changes in the UML from 1.0 to 1.1, from 1.2 to 1.3, and from 1.x to 2.0. I don't discuss all the changes that occur but rather only those that change something I said in UML Distilled or that represent important features that I would have discussed in UML Distilled.

I am continuing to follow the spirit of UML Distilled: to discuss the key elements of UML as they affect the application of the UML within real-world projects. As ever, the selections and advice are my own. If there is any conflict between what I say and the official UML documents, the UML documents are the ones to follow. (But do let me know, so I can make corrections.)

Table A.1. UML Distilled and corresponding UML versions

UML Distilled	UML Versions
1st edition	UML 1.0?.3
2nd edition	UML 1.3?.4
3rd edition	UML 2.0 onward

I have also taken the opportunity to indicate any important errors and omissions in the earlier printings. Thanks to the readers who have pointed these out to me.