Tutorials

Ulrich Frank

Empowering Development and Use of DSMLs with the FMML^x and the XModeler^ML

Abstract: Multi-level language architectures have been around for some time. However, it seems that many are still not aware of the substantial benefits they offer for developing DS(M)Ls and advanced application system architectures. To demonstrate the power of multi-level language architectures not only for DSML development but for using models during the entire lifecycle of application systems, the tutorial aims at providing an inspiring introduction to the development and implementation of DSMLs and applications with a multi-level language architecture. Based on a demonstration of how traditional language architectures like MOF compromise the development of models, DSMLs and of self-referential applications in general, the participants will learn how essential concepts of multi-level language architectures help to overcome these obstacles – and why they are especially suited for certain application areas including digital twins.

Speaker Biography: Ulrich Frank holds the chair of Information Systems and Enterprise Modelling at the Institute of Computer Science and Business Information Systems at the University of Duisburg-Essen. His main research topic is enterprise modelling, i.e. the development and evaluation of modelling languages, methods and corresponding tools. In recent years, he focused especially on multi-level language architectures. Together with Tony Clark from Aston University, he conducts the project “Language Engineering for Multi-level Modeling” (LE4MM, https://le4mm.org/). The project aims at further developing an integrated meta-modeling and meta-programming environment and, based on that, at the development of new self-referential enterprise systems that integrate enterprise software with conceptual models of themselves and the context they operate in at run time.

Avi Shaked

Addressing Vulnerabilities in Information Systems Engineering

Abstract: Vulnerability management is a critical aspect of cybersecurity and information security. While cybersecurity is often perceived as a specialized field, existing cybersecurity bodies of knowledge provide a wealth of accessible content. Non-specialists can draw on this material to design information systems for security, provided they adopt a disciplined, integrative approach grounded in an informed understanding of cybersecurity concepts and frameworks. In this tutorial, we offer an overview of key security concepts and knowledge bases, highlighting their role in shaping a sustainable view of systems' security postures. We then present a practical, systematic approach to managing the vulnerabilities of information systems. Finally, we conclude by exploring the potential role of Artificial Intelligence in vulnerability management.

Speaker Biography: Avi Shaked is currently a visiting researcher at the University of Oxford’s Department of Computer Science, where he was previously a Senior Research Associate leading the development of a security modelling tool for the UK government-sponsored Digital Security by Design programme. He received the BSc degree in Physics and Computer Science, the MSc degree in Physics and the PhD degree in Systems Engineering from Tel Aviv University. Prior to this, Dr. Shaked held roles as a Research Associate at Cardiff University and various R&D leadership positions in industry – including Head of Systems Security Engineering Field in Israel Aerospace Industries – in which he researched diverse aspects of security. His interests include systems thinking, conceptual modelling, engineering management, decision support systems and security by design.