Box-structured methods for systems development with objects

Box structures provide a rigorous and systematic process for performing systems development with objects. Box structures represent data abstractions as objects in three system views and combine the advantages of structured development with the advantages of object orientation. As data abstractions become more complex, the box structure usage hierarchy allows stepwise refinement of the system design with referential transparency and verification at every step. An integrated development environment based on box structures supports flexible object-based systems development patterns. We present a classic example of object-based systems development using box structures.