Process and data nets: the conceptual model of the M*-OBJECT methodology

The paper describes a specification model, called the Process and Data Net (PDN) model, used as the modeling tool for the M*-OBJECT information system design methodology. The model integrates the representation of static, dynamic, and behavioral aspects of a database application. PDN consists of two components: an object-oriented data model that describes static and behavioral aspects of objects of the system under analysis, and a process model that specifies a way organization activities must be coordinated. The major features of the proposed approach are: 1) the system representation captures all relevant properties from the end-user viewpoint without unnecessary details concerning implementation, 2) complex data structures and data manipulations can be specified, and 3) specifications are executable for rapid prototyping.