The CSTL processor: a tool for automated conceptual schema testing

In this demonstration paper, we present the CSTL Processor, a tool to support the validation of two fundamental quality properties of conceptual schemas (correctness and completeness) by testing. The CSTL Processor supports the management, execution and automatic computation of the verdicts of test cases which formalize stakeholders’ needs and expectations.Peer ReviewedPostprint (published version

Conceptual Modeling Quality From EER To UML Schemas Evaluation

This exploratory research investigates the evaluation process of conceptual specifications developed using either Extended Entity-Relationship (EER) or Unified Modeling Language (UML) conceptual models. In this paper, we provide a comprehensive framework for evaluating EER and UML conceptual schemas. Furthermore, we define classes of metrics facilitating the evaluation process and leading to the choice of the appropriate representation among several schemas describing the same reality. Based on quality criteria proposed in the literature, we select a subset of criteria relevant to conceptual EER schema quality evaluation. For each criterion we define one or several metrics allowing the designer to measure the schema quality. We evaluate alternative EER conceptual schemas representing the same universe of discourse using the appropriate criteria and their associated metrics. Finally, we extrapolate this evaluation process to UML schemas. Following the development of our framework, we analyze a case study and provide evidence in the support of the usefulness of the framework

Representation Theory versus Workflow Patterns - The Case of BPMN

Selecting an appropriate process modeling language forms an important task within business process management projects. A wide range of process modeling languages has been developed over the last decades, leading to an obvious need for rigorous theory to assist in the evaluation and comparison of the capabilities of these languages. While academic progress in the area of process modeling language evaluation has been made on at least two premises, Representation Theory and Workflow Patterns, it remains unclear how these frameworks relate to each other. We use a generic framework for language evaluation to establish similarities and differences between these acknowledged reference frameworks and discuss how and to what extent they complement respectively substitute each other. Our line of investigation follows the case of the popular BPMN modeling language, whose evaluation from the perspectives of Representation Theory and Workflow Patterns is reconciled in this paper

Ensuring Quality of Large Scale Industrial Process Collections: Experiences from a Case Study

International audienceAs approaches and tools for process and enterprise modelling are maturing, these techniques are in an increasing number of organizations being taken into use on a large scale. In this paper we report on the use over many years of process-modelling in connection to the quality system of Statoil, a large Norwegian oil-company, in particular on the aspects found necessary to emphasis to achieve the right quality of the models in this organisation. The Statoil-guidelines for enterprise structure and use of standard notation are mapped to the levels of SEQUAL, a generic framework for understanding the quality of models. Guidelines for modelling are found on most levels. More detailed guidelines than in general work on quality of business process models are found in particular on the physical, empirical, and syntactic level, where the number of detailed guidelines in Statoil has increased over the years due to needs identified