There have been numerous studies on formal methods but little utilisation of formal methods
in the commercial world. This can be attributed to many factors, such as that few specialists
know how to use formal methods. Moreover, the use of mathematical notation leads to the
perception that formal methods are difficult. Formal methods can be described as system
design methods by which complex computer systems are built using mathematical notation
and logic.
Formal methods have been used in the software development world since 1940, that is to
say, from the earliest stage of computer development. To date, there has been a slow
adoption of formal methods, which are mostly used for mission-critical projects in, for
example, the military and the aviation industry. Researchers worldwide are conducting
studies on formal methods, but the research mostly deals with path planning and control and
not the runtime verification of autonomous systems.
The main focus of this dissertation is the question of how to increase the pace at which
formal methods are adopted in the business or commercial world. As part of this dissertation,
a framework was developed to facilitate the use of formal methods in the commercial world.
The framework mainly focuses on education, support tools, buy-in and remuneration. The
framework was validated using a case study to illustrate its practicality. This dissertation also
focuses on different types of formal methods and how they are used, as well as the link
between formal methods and other software development techniques.
An ERP system specification is presented in both natural language (informal) and formal
notation, which demonstrates how a formal specification can be derived from an informal
specification using the enhanced established strategy for constructing a Z specification as a
guideline. Success stories of companies that are applying formal methods in the commercial
world are also presented. / School of Computing
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:netd.ac.za/oai:union.ndltd.org:unisa/oai:uir.unisa.ac.za:10500/27289 |
| Date | 10 1900 |
| Creators | Nemathaga, Aifheli |
| Source Sets | South African National ETD Portal |
| Language | English |
| Detected Language | English |
| Type | Dissertation |
| Format | application/pdf |
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