Improving Access of the Commercial Software Developer to Formal Methods: Integrating MERISE with Z

Whilst formal methods can make valuable contributions to system specification, structured methodologies are seen as more appropriate for commercial systems development, particularly user involvement. This paper investigates the applicability of Z to MERISE, the French structured methodology, recommending the adoption of a formal link between the two, an integration procedure proposed by Semmens et al. We apply our previous classification of approaches to user-centred design; participative structures, processes, and scope which need to be addressed by a variety of methods, techniques and tools. We seek to show how combination with structured methods can improve the accessibility of formal methods, processes can be enhanced, enabling better communication through participative structures.. These ideas are illustrated by means of a simple, albeit real-life example in which a Z specification is developed through the translation of MERISE conceptual data and process models.