A Multi-dimensional Framework for Characterizing Domain Specific Languages

The paper presents a questionnaire to assess Domain Specific Languages based on a multi-dimensional framework for characterizing languages. An issue is whether and how to distinguish between characteristics of domain-specific and general purpose languages. We discuss how to emphasize dimensions that are particularly important for domain-specific languages such as being formal, yet transparent as well as integrable with other languages. We consider hazards and potentials of the approach.