This paper describes a software design pattern (e.g., hierarchical graphs of modelview‐controllers) and models of visualization for ontology‐enabled traceability, where requirements are traced to elements of finite‐state machine behavior (e.g., actions, states, transitions and guard conditions). These ontology‐enabled traceability mechanisms will play an important role in the team‐based development of network‐enabled platforms for analysis, design, and early validation and verification of information‐age engineering systems. The application of these concepts is illustrated through the study of a simplified rail transit system.