Experiments on Pattern-based Ontology Design

This paper addresses the evaluation of pattern-based ontology design through experiments. An initial method for reuse of content ontology design patterns (Content ODPs) was used by the participants during the experiments. Hypotheses considered include the usefulness of Content ODPs for ontology developers, and we additionally study in what respects they are useful and what open issues remain. The main positive conclusions when using Content ODPs include: ontology developers perceived them as useful, ontology quality is improved, coverage of the task increases, usability is improved, and common modelling mistakes can be avoided.