An ontology-driven fuzzy workflow system

Abstract

In this paper, we present a methodology for integrating workflow-driven information system with an ontology-based knowledge repository, where both the above specified systems are built upon the fuzzy set theory, and hence capable of dealing with vagueness and uncertainty. Furthermore, we introduce some workflow activities that use fuzzy logic for human-friendly communication with business process participants. We also present a technique of workflow execution log analysis, and subsequent fuzzy ontology reasoning to provide an automated feedback to the workflow, and thus to achieve its evolution. We also report on prototypical implementations, namely a component for hybrid integration of fuzzy ontology with the information system, and a component for building fuzzy workflows in a workflow designer. © 2013 Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg.