Pattern-Based Ontology Design

In this chapter, we present ontology design patterns (ODPs), which are reusable modeling solutions that encode modeling best practices. ODPs are the main tool for performing pattern-based design of ontologies, which is an approach to ontology development that emphasizes reuse and promotes the development of a common “language” for sharing knowledge about ontology design best practices. We put specific focus on content ODPs (CPs) and show how they can be used within a particular methodology. CPs are domain-dependent patterns, the requirements of which are expressed by means of competency questions, contextual statements, and reasoning requirements. The eXtreme Design (XD) methodology is an iterative and incremental process, which is characterized by a test-driven and collaborative development approach. In this chapter, we exemplify the XD methodology for the specific case of CP reuse. The XD methodology is also supported by a set of software components named XD Tools, compatible with the NeOn Toolkit, which assist users in the process of pattern-based design.