Applying SOFL to develop a University Information System

How to effectively apply formal methods under schedule constraints to develop real systems is an important issue to address. We report our recent experience in the application of SOFL (Structured Object-based Formal Language) to developing a University Information System. The intention of the study is to investigate whether and how formal methods can benefit the development of non-safety critical systems with time constraints. We have found that if used appropriately, formal methods can help to save time, to improve the accuracy of discussions and communications, to facilitate transformations from specifications to design, and then to programs. On the other hand, we have also found that formal specifications in the style of pre- and postconditions can be difficult to write; formal specifications without reviews may involve mistakes; and satisfactory formal specifications that serve as the reliable documents for development and maintenance may be completed only throughout the entire development process.