Rapid prototyping by means of abstract module specifications written as trace axioms

In this paper we discuss the use of a form of abstract specifications for software modules called trace axioms or trace assertions. Specifications written in this form precisely describe the external behavior of the module and can be automatically tested for consistancy and completeness. Errors revealed by the testing process can be rapidly corrected by a man-machine interactive process. These specifications could then be interpreted or compiled to form a rapid prototype of the final system.