An approach to the evolution of conceptual methods

Two formal meta-mappings for the integration of vertical and horizontal mappings are proposed. The former characterizes the mappings from a conceptual/semantic data model to a corresponding logical/object model. The latter characterizes the mappings from an extension of the previous conceptual model to a corresponding logical/object model. The extension that represents a horizontal mapping is based on a notion of model compatibility. This allows determining a corresponding extension of the logical model and of the vertical mapping characterization. The approach supports the method evolution in order to define correct conceptual methods