A Model-Oriented Method for Algebraic Specification using COLD-1 as Notation

A model-oriented method for algebraic specifications is described, using the design language COLD-1 as notation. The method is based upon standard algebraic concepts, such as equivalence relations, congruence relations and homomorphisms. The method makes a clear distinction between the abstract type being defined and the model used as representation. The advantage of this approach is that the problem of implementation bias does not apply and that the operations of the model do not need to satisfy a property usually termed representation invariant. As such, the method deviates in an essential way from model-oriented methods like VDM and Z. Conceivable tool support for the method is briefly sketched.