A multi-model approach for deriving requirements specifications for a mega-project

Abstract

This paper illustrates the experiences in the adaptation of the Conceptual Schema approach as defined in ISO TR 9007 on a mega-project. It steps through the stages that a large project for the re-design of a secure networked Automatic Data Processing system takes in a particular Canadian Government Sector. The experiences of personnel in establishing the necessary framework for requirements definition and specification are highlighted. Traditional large information technology projects present their requirements in elusive terms, using narrative text for contractors to analyze. The Canadian Forces Supply System Upgrade Project has taken an innovative approach in formalizing its system specifications for presentation to contractors. The paper defines the framework of models that were used in establishing the set of system specifications and its associated problems with people, skills, time and resources, in terms of Conceptual Schemas, Database Semantics, and Databases, to handle a mix of classified and unclassified data. This is the first time that a large government project in North America is approaching industry with a formal specification suite based on a comprehensive set of integrated models. This paper summarizes the work done in this area to the time of submission of the responses to the Request for Proposal for Funded Project Definition phase of the Project (August, 1991).