STOCHASTIC-PROCESS ALGEBRAS - BETWEEN LOTOS AND MARKOV-CHAINS

This paper introduces stochastic process algebras as an approach for t he structured design and analysis of both the functional behavior and performance characteristics of parallel and distributed systems. This is achieved by integrating stochastic modelling and analysis into proc ess algebras like CCS or LOTOS. We demonstrate how notions of equivale nt behavior - substantial for process algebras - stand in a new light for stochastic process algebras. In particular we discuss the impact o f stochastic versions of such equivalences on compositional performanc e analysis by means of a running example. In addition we discuss analy sis techniques, tool support and include a survey of related work as w ell as recent trends in this area. (C) 1998 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.