Semantic Validation of BPEL Fragment Compositions

We present an approach to improve design-time user support during the composition of web services into BPEL processes. The approach is based on adding semantic service descriptions to SimpleBPEL, a framework that supports web service novices in designing workflows. Experienced BPEL developers define domain specific profiles, containing parts of a BPEL process called SimpleBPEL fragments. The application domain specialists then use these fragments to intuitively create workflows. Semantic service descriptions are leveraged to support workflow design, including data mediation, automated workflow completion and compatibility checks as well as validation based on domain and data semantics. A prototypical implementation demonstrates the feasibility of our approach.