The use of Z

A method for formally specifying the generation of formal specifications from a CASE tools' repository is described. The limitations of the approach are identified and summarised. An alternative approach is outlined that addresses an important limitation, that of the original approach being specific to one software development method. The use of a neutral representation to generalise the approach to other software development methods is outlined. A mechanism is outlined that uses the original approach and the neutral representation to enable an incremental approach to the adoption of formal specification techniques. The incremental adoption is supported by the default generation of a formal specification that allows the inclusion of hand written formal specification fragments in a controlled way. The work builds on the established area of method integration by thoroughly investigating one approach to integration and suggesting ways that this could be improved. The techniques presented go some way to providing a framework in which the use of formal specifications techniques can be adopted in an incremental manner.

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“…Z has found broad applications in academia as well as in the industry [3][4][5]. There is also parity between Z and other specification languages in use today.…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

“…The issue of difficulty in understanding formal specifications involving mathematical notations has been raised in the past [7][8][9]. Indeed, surveys have shown that untrained users [10] as well as experienced users [3] face difficulties in understanding Z and specifications based on it. Therefore, an investigation into the quality of Z specifications from a stakeholder perspective [7] is both necessary and timely.…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

A Framework for the Pragmatic Quality of Z Specifications

Kamthan

2006

Int. J. Soft. Eng. Knowl. Eng.

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Z is a formal specification language for describing sequential software systems. As the use of Z increases, the quality of Z specifications as effective means of communication arises. The aim of this paper is to contribute to a systematic assessment of the quality of Z specifications as perceived by their stakeholders. A pragmatic quality framework for Z specifications using notions from semiotics, cognitive psychology, and information system quality is proposed. The goals for pragmatic quality, and manageable criteria and mechanisms to address them in a feasible manner are identified. The utility and trade-offs of the mechanisms in achieving the quality goals of the framework are analyzed. Examples that lead to compromise of pragmatic quality in a Z specification, and techniques for improvement, are given.

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The use of Z

Cited by 20 publications

References 13 publications

ZUM ’98: The Z Formal Specification Notation

ZUM ’98: The Z Formal Specification Notation

Generating Formal Specifications from CASE Repositories

A Framework for the Pragmatic Quality of Z Specifications

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