Formal Methods of Software Development in the 2000’s- A case study of Nigeria

Abstract

Formal methods of software engineering involves the application of mathematical techniques in a software life cycle. It is not only restricted to softwares as it is applicable in hardware requirements and design specifications. Despite their proven importance, formal methods are not applied as expected in this era. Most software developers do not apply them in their work. This paper gives an overview of formal methods. It also gives a detailed explanation of the level at which information technology (IT) professionals in Nigeria apply formal methods during their real life work of systems development. The statistical results given in this paper are obtained through a statistical analysis of the data obtained from the questionnaires distributed to 250 computing sciences and information technology professionals who are working in various IT organizations in Nigeria. Furthermore, the authors point out some suggestions which when followed will lead to the success of formal methods in present and future world of computing.