Track
Research-in-Progress
Abstract
Part-whole relation (PWR), as a fundamental element to model the real world, has long been concerned by researchers andpractitioners. Theoretical work has been undertaken to develop the classifications of distinct types of part-whole relations(PWRs) and their properties in an attempt to clarify their semantics. There is no empirical evaluation, however, that supportswhether it is necessary to specify distinct types of PWRs and their properties in conceptual modeling. In this light, this studyfirst designs a specific representation of PWRs through a systematic review of the literature, and then by employing thetheory of ontological clarity and the theory of cognitive fit, empirically compares its performance with that of conventionalrepresentation of PWRs. The findings are expected to enrich the growing body of knowledge that supports the usefulness ofontological and cognitive theories, and provide empirical evidence regarding how to model the PWRs for practitioners.
Recommended Citation
Wang, Yonggui; Xu, Dongming; and Rohde, Fiona H., "On the Specification of Part-Whole Relations in Conceptual Modeling: An Empirical Study" (2011). AMCIS 2011 Proceedings - All Submissions. 374.
https://aisel.aisnet.org/amcis2011_submissions/374