Agent-oriented modeling by interleaving formal and informal specification

The goal of this paper is to discuss possibilities of inter-mixing formal and informal specification in order to guide and support the conceptual modeling process in software development. We sketch a framework which rests on an agent-oriented methodology that provides a modeling language which allows for the definition of both informal and formal specification. We show how formal techniques can be used to guide and support the analyst while building and refining a conceptual model. Examples of its applications are discussed, with reference to the decision making process undertaken by the analyst when performing a set of activities relevant for requirements engineering, such as requirements elicitation and refinement, user validation of requirements specification, or management of requirements evolution. A case study taken from a technology transfer project in the agricultural domain is used to illustrate the approach