Conceptual Modelling and Web Site Generation using Graph Technology

Starting with a conceptual model when designing a web site is the state of the art. A conceptual model helps to grasp and structure the problem domain and is the first step towards a formal representation of the web site, provided that the chosen technology has a formal foundation. Applying the extended entity relationship driven EER/GRAL-approach to specifying graph classes, we show that graph technology can be utilised to ensure a coherent and consistent usage of a conceptual model and its instances for defining and generating an arbitrary complex web site. During this process, graphs are used as repository structures in conformance with the conceptual model, allowing for descriptive graph queries to define the contents of the web pages. Along with the application of XSL (extensible stylesheet language) as a means to foster separation of content and layout, this approach ensures a permanently consistent web site. Some examples are given.