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Version: 2026.1.12

Introduction to the Software Factory

This document aims to assist you with the development of an end product with the Thinkwise Software Factory. It explains in steps how to develop, test, and document your software end product. Furthermore, you will become acquainted with the Thinkwise concepts. The menu structure of this manual follows the menu structure of the Software Factory.

Prior knowledge and experience with data modeling and programming in SQL is desirable to be able to develop an end product with the Thinkwise Software Factory.

Components of the Thinkwise Platform​

The Thinkwise Platform consists of the following components:

  • Software Factory (SF)
  • Intelligent Application Manager (IAM)
  • Indicium Application Tier
  • Graphical User Interfaces (GUIs).

The Software Factory is used during the development phase to develop an end product. The GUIs read the model so the user can work with the end product. Local code editing in the Software Factory is supported by the Thinkwise Workspace Listener, ensuring a smooth development experience.

When developing an application with the Software Factory, you can already demonstrate a working prototype of the application after completing the modeling phase. This is due to the phased structure of the development process, and because no code needs to be written for the prototype. Your stakeholders can already see a working end product at an early stage, and get an idea where the product is going. The prototype serves as the basis for further development, adding functionality, and documentation.

The Intelligent Application Manager administers all the models of the applications that are in production, test, or acceptance. Application administrators can add authorizations and user preferences with the help of the Intelligent Application Manager.

The Indicium application tier is a generic service tier application that uses model interpretation to provide the required logic and functionality.

The presentation for the user is provided by the GUIs (Universal GUI or Windows GUI) in the production environment. The Universal GUI is a fully responsive Progressive Web App for mobile and desktop.

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For more information about these components, see the Thinkwise Platform overview.

Want to learn more?​

  • You can find definitions of Thinkwise-specific terminology in our Glossary of terms.
  • Follow e-learning courses and training at the Thinkwise Academy to increase your development expertise. The available e-learning courses cover important topics such as the Software Factory, IAM, Actwise, SQL & Data Modeling, and more.
  • Read applied examples in blog posts on the Thinkwise Community. Note that blog posts are not official documentation and may be version-sensitive. Be sure to check the blog content and the recent release notes for any changes.
  • Watch demonstrations, talks, and more on our YouTube channel.
  • Attend a Knowledge Session where we share insights and best practices on using the Thinkwise Platform. You can rewatch previous Knowledge Sessions at the Thinkwise Academy. If you do not have access to the Thinkwise Academy, contact your account manager to request access or ask for more information about the available training.

Software Factory

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