Abstract. In this paper, we describe a technique for integrating heterogeneous information systems using concept bases. A concept base is build on top of each system to integrate, in order to semantically enrich its description. Each concept is described at three different levels: terminological definition, formal characterization, and representation in the underlying system. The different concept bases are then used to compare the concepts represented in the different systems and to establish correspondences between them in order to facilitate communication, cooperation, or integration. Our approach relies on results of the ConcepTerm project, dedicated to the study of concept dictionary building methodology and process. We also show that the building of a concept base can benefit database design and high-level interface definitions.

The EcrinsDesign system is a graphical tool for data schema design. It is based on the Ecrins semantic data model. It supports interactive data schema design by direct manipulation of graphical objects. Its main contribution is the definition and the management of the dynamic aspects of the graphical representation: the type of each object may evolve, depending on the user's actions and conforming to a set of integrity rules. The legibility of the edited schemas, the flexibility and the high level of interaction are the main characteristics of the system. Moreover, the system is composed of an Ecrins Data Definition Language generator, enabling the communication with the target Ecrins/BD DBMS, which implements the Ecrins data model. The EcrinsDesign system is implemented in Think C TM on the Apple@ Macintosh TM II family computers.