1 May 1996
Dear Jim,
In reponse to the Call for Contributions for the Seattle workshop on data and process modelling, I am appending herewith an abstract which falls into the category of an industry expert contribution.
The abstract contains 370 words and I hope is of sufficient length for you to be able to make an evaluation.
It seems possible from the Call for Contributions that this abstract should be submitted by a "national body" - in my case BSI. I have raised this issue with BSI. In view of the very short time available, I have been given authorization to submit directly to you. Another problem is that BSI's email system is not functioning at this time.
I look forward to hearing from you further on this matter.
Yours sincerely,
Bill Olle
ABSTRACT OF PAPER SUBMITTED TO JTC1 WORKSHOP
Fundamentals of Data and Process Modelling
This paper addresses both data modelling and process modelling with the emphasis on the former. The paper notes that there are numerous approaches to data modelling and to process modelling in widespread use, the differences between alternative approaches being firstly the representation form used and secondly the extra kinds of constraints expressible with more advanced approaches to data modelling.
The concept of a representation form is elaborated as being not merely diagramming techniques, but also including formalized languages such as SQL92 and Express, as well as the more mathematically oriented forms such as predicate logic.
The paper attempts to establish that the principles underlying most if not all approaches to data modelling are basically the same and gives a taxonomy for these principles illustrating how selected types of constraint (the more simple of which are usually thought of as relationships) can be handled in different representation forms.
The paper distinguishes carefully between analytic modelling (modelling what is there in what is variously referred to as a business area, a problem area and a universe of discourse) and prescriptive modelling (modelling what is needed in a problem area).
A three point spectrum (enterprise, computer human interface and computer system) is identified, in each part of which modelling has a role to play.
The paper discusses typical uses of modelling such as information systems methodologies, enterprise modelling, conceptual modelling, and data base design. It is suggested that the data/process modelling approach is actually a very fundamental discipline which could profitably be applied far more widely than is currently the case. Examples of such possible applications are in the analysis of and consensus building for complex situations, and in the definition of standards typically written in narrative prose (such as quality assurance).
Finally, the paper addresses the following four questions of relevance to the workshop and to international standards . Firstly, what international standards are needed for data and process modelling? Secondly, how can a modelling approach be used in formally defining other international standard? Thirdly, how can a modelling approach mitigate the problem of products based on standards prepared at different times by different groups. Fourthly, how can a modelling approach assist in meeting the main ISO goal for standards of achieving interoperability?