Ontology-driven Methodology for Constructing Software Systems

Abstract

Ontologies and Ontology-based systems are key building-blocks of intelligent Internet enabled software systems. Ontology-driven Software Construction, where the software construction process itself is driven by the Ontology, is appropriate for the development of intelligent systems. This paper explores what approach to Ontology-driven Software Construction would be suited for the development of intelligent systems. Athabasca University’s eAdvisor intelligent academic advising system is used as an application example of an intelligent, Ontology-based software system. The methodology proposed in this paper synthesizes documented learnings and guidelines related to Ontology development and Ontology driven Software Construction, to provide a method that is usable by the Development Team while being able to meet Sponsor needs by being able to fit within typical project governance frameworks. A literature review of research related to eAdvisor, intelligent systems, software development methodologies, Ontologies, Ontology development and Ontology-driven Software Construction was used to develop a baseline Ontology-driven Software Construction methodology incorporating documented best practices and guidelines. This methodology baseline was reviewed with technical experts in focused interviews and, following qualitative analysis of the interviews, the methodology baseline was updated to incorporate input and address concerns raised during the course of the interviews.