A Unifying Framework for Structured Analysis and Design Models: An Approach Using Initial Algebra Semantics and Category Theory

by T. H. Tse

Overview

Structured methodologies are a popular and powerful tool in information systems development. Many different ones exist, each employing a number of models and so a specification must be converted from one form to another during the development process. To solve this problem, Dr. Tse proposes a unifying framework behind popular structured models. He approaches the problem from the viewpoints of algebra and category theory. He not only develops the frameworks but also illustrates their practical and theoretical usefulness. Thus, this book will provide insight for software engineers into how methodologies can be formalized, and will open up a range of applications and problems for theoretical computer scientists.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780521391962
Publisher:	Cambridge University Press
Publication date:	05/09/1991
Series:	Cambridge Tracts in Theoretical Computer Science , #11
Pages:	192
Product dimensions:	7.01(w) x 10.00(h) x 0.51(d)

Table of Contents

1. Introduction; 2. Desirable features of systems development environments; 3. A comparison with related projects; 4. Initial algebra as a unifying framework for structured models; 5. Category theory as a unifying framework for structured models; 6. The identification of unstructuredness; 7. A prototype system to implement the unifying framework; 8. Future directions; 9. Conclusions; References; Appendices.

Editorial Reviews

"...if you would enjoy refreshing your knowledge of category theory and related branches of mathematics, this text will show how the power of mathematics can be used in practical ways." D.W. Ballew, Computing Reviews

"...presents intial algebras as a unifying framework for structured analysis and design. The material is valuable and ought to be of interest either to software engineers searching for a foundation for their work or to theoreticians looking for interesting applications of category theory." Tom Jacob and Bill Kaizer, ACM SIG-ACT NEWS

From the Publisher