Formal Methods for Software Engineering: Languages, Methods, Application Domains

Software programs are formal entities with precise meanings independent of their programmers, so the transition from ideas to programs necessarily involves a formalization at some point. This graduate-level introduction to formal methods develops an understanding of what constitutes formal methods and their place in Software Engineering. It also introduces logics as languages to describe reasoning and the process algebra CSP as a language to represent behaviors. The second part offers specification and testing methods for formal development of software, based on the modeling languages CASL and UML. The third part takes the reader into the application domains of normative documents, human-machine interfaces, and security.

Format: Hardback
Length: 524 pages
Publication date: 23 June 2022
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

Software programs, as formal entities with precise meanings independent of their programmers, undergo a crucial transition from ideas to programs that necessitates a formalization process at some point. This introductory graduate-level text delves into the realm of formal methods, shedding light on their significance in Software Engineering. It begins by establishing a foundational understanding of what constitutes formal methods and their role in the development of software. The text then introduces logics as languages for describing reasoning, emphasizing their role in formalizing ideas and reasoning. Additionally, it introduces process algebra CSP as a language for representing behaviors, enabling the formalization of software development processes.

The second part of the book focuses on specification and testing methods for formal software development. It builds upon the modelling languages CASL and UML, providing practical approaches for capturing and verifying software requirements and specifications. The third part of the book takes the reader into the application domains of normative documents, human-machine interfaces, and security. Throughout the book, a consistent use of notations and formalisms is maintained, ensuring a uniform understanding of the concepts presented.

Topics and features:

The book offers a comprehensive exploration of the foundations of formal methods. It introduces specification, verification, and testing methods for formal software development.

The book delves into various application domains, providing insights into the practical applications of formal methods in real-world scenarios.

Realistic and practical examples are provided throughout the text, illustrating key concepts and helping students grasp the practical implications of formal methods.

Contributions from highly experienced educators and researchers ensure that the content is up-to-date and relevant.

The book offers modelling and analysis methods for formal development of software, providing valuable tools for students and professionals in software engineering, informatics, and other related fields.

Suitable for graduate and undergraduate courses in software engineering, this uniquely practical textbook will also be of value to students in informatics, as well as to scientists and practical engineers, who seek to learn about or work more effectively with formal theories and methods.

Markus Roggenbach, a Professor in the Department of Computer Science at Swansea University, is the author of this textbook. Antonio Cerone, an Associate Professor in the Department of Computer Science at Nazarbayev University, Nur-Sultan, also contributes to the book. Bernd-Holger Schlingloff, a Professor in the Institut für Informatik, also contributes to the book.

Weight: 986g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030387990
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022