Michael Jackson´s problem frames: towards methodological principles of selecting and applying formal software development techniques and tools

We attempt formal characterisations of M.A. Jackson\´s (1995) concept of problem frames-and illustrate the translation (JSP), control, information systems, connection and workpiece frames. The paper is based on the following definition of method: A set of principles for selecting and applying techniques and tools in order to efficiently develop an efficient (here software) artifact. Most "formal methods" fail this definition-and we wish to show how formal design calculi can fit into the above definition. The paper is also based on the tri-partite separation of concern wherein software development is seen as having three intertwined "stages/activities" : Domain analysis and theory construction, in which formal models of the application domain-without any reference to computing-"precedes" requirements capture which again "precedes" software design.