Experiences in applying formal methods to the analysis of software and system requirements

Abstract

In an effort to improve the quality of software and system requirements, formal methods (FM) is being investigated by NASA because evidence existed that FM is useful in creating consistent and verifiable specifications. This investigation of FM consists of trial projects that are used to gather data on FM's cost-effectiveness and to demonstrate this effectiveness to prospective users. These trial projects were specifically constructed to maximize the likelihood that requirements analysts will recognize the benefits of FM and integrate it into their existing approaches. A key aspect of these trial-projects is the make-up of the teams which influenced the planning, execution, and evaluation of results. Through these projects, much has been learned about the use of FM and its potential for being accepted as a viable way to improve requirements analysis.