Object-Role Modeling and Finite-Model Theory

Why a proof theoretic mapping of greater Object-Role Modeling to a theory under finite model theory holds no guarantee of unambiguous models.

Greater Object-Role Modeling mapped to sentences of a theory of finite-model theory. Image by author.

In an earlier article we explored why certain graphical models of Object-Role Modeling can be ambiguous and where for any semblance of formalism to be attributable to Object-Role Modeling (ORM), models under ORM need to be seen in the greater context of the natural language verbalisations that may be derived from the ORM model stored in its entirety within a data structure defined by the metamodel of ORM, and as made available by computer software.

I.e. Only a ‘Greater’ Object-Role Modeling extended beyond the graphical notation of ORM diagrams has any semblance of being able to be considered formal in a logical sense. We draw the triumvirate of the greater Object-Role Modeling, as:

The three essential components of a formal greater Object-Role Modeling. Image by author.

The three essential ingredients of greater Object-Role Modeling are:

1. ORM diagrams;
2. Natural language verbalisations of elements of the model expressed in ORM;