Information modeling technology--the open representation of information for database and other computing applications--has grown significantly in recent years as the need for universal systems of information coding has steadily increased. EXPRESS is a particularly successful ISO International Standard language family for object-flavored information modeling. This cogent introduction to EXPRESS provides numerous, detailed examples of the language family's applicability to a diverse range of endeavors, including mechanical engineering, petroleum exploration, stock exchange asset management, and the human genome project. The book also examines the history, practicalities, and implications of information modeling in general, and considers the vagaries of normal language that necessitate precise communication methods. This first-ever guide to information modeling and EXPRESS offers invaluable advice based on years of practical experience. It will be the introduction that students as well as information and data modeling professionals have been waiting for.

Preface; Introduction; Definitions; Part I: Information Modeling; 1. Information and Communication; 2. Models and Representations; 3. The Modeling Process; 4. A Worked Example; 5. Modeling Principles; 6. Integration and Specialization; 7. Model Documentation; 8. EXPRESS Information Base; Part II: The EXPRESS Language; 9. Basic Elements; 10. Datatypes; 11. Declarations; 12. References; 13. Executable Statements; 14. Expressions; 15. Interfacing; 16. EXPRESS Syntax; 17. A Graphical Form of EXPRESS; 18. Symbols; 19. EXPRESS-G Models; 20. Sample Models; 21. The EXPRESS-I Language; 22. Usage Notes; 23. EXPRESS-I Syntax; Bibliography; Index

Douglas A. SchenckMcDonnell Douglas Corporation, Peter R. WilsonRensselaer Polytechnic Institute

"This book is an important contribution to information technology. It promotes intuitive, well-known constructs on a solid language level suitable for engineering use. All the material is valuable for designers of information systems, analysts and academics specializing in information technology." -- Computing Reviews