terminology for naming TOSCA files and templates

[Chris Lauwers <lauwers@ubicity.com>]

I have received comments on our TOSCA specifications that suggest that our names for files and service templates are confusing:

 

• We use the name “service template” to refer to a file that includes TOSCA statements. However, not all TOSCA files contain “templates” from which to create services. For example, some TOSCA files define profiles, or are included in other TOSCA files without ever defining a service.
• We also use the name “topology template”. A topology template actually DOES refer to a template from which a service topology is created. Often we confuse the terms “service template” and “topology template”

 

I think the spec could benefit from clearer terminology in this area. How about the following:

 

• We remove the term “service template” from the specification altogether.
• Instead, we use the term “TOSCA file” to refer to a file that contains TOSCA statements.
• We exclusively use the term “topology template” to refer to a template from which services are created.

 

Thanks,

 

Chris