A representation is defined as the perceptible form of the information carried by a business object.

Representations (for example, messages or documents) are the perceptible carriers of information that are related to business objects.

A single business object can have a number of different representations, but a representation always belongs to one specific business object. A representation may realize one or more business objects. A meaning can be associated with a representation that carries this meaning.

The name of a representation is preferably a noun.

Category: Business Layer and Passive structure aspect

Examples: Paper Bill, Request Form, Claim Form, Online Form.

Typical Relationships:

  • Association - meaning
  • Realisation - business object

Source: Archi - The Free ArchiMate Modelling Tool - Hint for the model element.