In this paper, we propose a rule-based approach (called JSDZ) to producing Z specifications from Jackson system development (JSD) specifications automatically. In JSDZ, JSP is to serve as the structuring mechanism to help the analysis of problem domains, and Z is to express the formal specifications of JSD artifacts. Several criteria are identified for comparing specifications generated from JSDZ and Z. The bringing together of diagrammatical and text elements of JSD specifications in Z notations offers two major benefits. First, JSD can be seen both as a structuring mechanism that helps in deriving Z specifications, and as a preliminary that assists in ascertaining the clients requirements. Second, Z specifications make it easier to identify omissions or errors. (C) 1998 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
