Visio for UML -- been there done that, check out a real UML tool, Enterprise Architect from Sparx Systyem (http://www.sparxsystems.com.au/). Full support for UML 2, updated regularly -- just check out their revison history. You can even use SQL Server for your model repository. And the price is right, only $225 for the top end "corporate" edition.

Can't say enough about it... simply love it.

As far as UML books are concerned check out the 3rd Edition of Martin Fowler's UML Distilled.

yes, Visio for UML is a bit of a joke... minimal level just to get you started and generate code of first version . But absolutely nothing (beside broken reverse engineering) for 6 month later when you need to sync back actual code changes into model and design next interation of architecture.

Rational XDE for VS.NET is *insanely* great. Visual Studio with XDE is simply in completely different universe comparing to standart VS.NET. XDE is like installing turbo on your VS.NET car, and realizing it became space shuttle instead. Think CodeRush in 10th degree squared.

Darn, you seen just right through my evil plan! ;)

seriously, XDE is well worth checking out even if price can be a somewhat of a morale dumper. XDE was just a life-saver for me recently on not that complex multi-component project. By time it grown to dozen assemblies Visio all but desintegrated into completely usless obsolete mess and was chocking for *minutes* on trivial operations.

Does anyone know exactly how much XDE runs these days? I used it a couple of years ago for free when it was in beta. It ROCKED then, too! Even in beta. I'm sure they've since worked out any kinks that were in it back when I used it.

Great product, great VS.NET integration.

XDE Developer is about $2500. I've used it, and it's a GREAT tool, but for the price I'd second the recommendation for Enterprise Architect from Sparx Systems. Call it 2/3's the tool for 1/10th the price.