Formal Conceptual Modeling for Explainable AI

By G. Sawatzky

Bridging rigorous conceptual foundations and real-world intelligent systems

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About

I work at the intersection of formal modeling, conceptual and semanticSemantics refers to the explicit modeling of conceptual distinctions in a conceptual schema, supporting shared meaning, reasoning, and action through use, interpretation, and refinement over time. foundations, and practical application. My background includes over a decade in Banking as a Service and Ad Tech, where I've applied enterprise architecture and integration methodologies to complex business problems.

This site documents my research and explorations in formal conceptual modeling (DEMODEMO (Design & Engineering Methodology for Organisations) is a theory-based approach for modeling the essential structure of organizations in terms of actor roles, commitments, and coordination acts, explicitly separating what an organization does from how it is implemented or supported by technology, ORMORM (Object-Role Modeling) is a fact-oriented conceptual modeling method that represents domain knowledge through object types, fact types, explicit roles, and constraints, enabling precise conceptual schemas independent of data structures, processes, or system implementation.), semantic foundationsSemantic Foundations refers to the principle that semantics belongs to conceptual schemas, purpose belongs to intent, execution belongs to agents, and authority and accountability belong to humans., and the integration of symbolic and learning-based approaches to AI. I build tools and demonstrations to explore how disciplined conceptual models can power more explainable, maintainable intelligent systems.

Methodologies DEMODEMO (Design & Engineering Methodology for Organisations) is a theory-based approach for modeling the essential structure of organizations in terms of actor roles, commitments, and coordination acts, explicitly separating what an organization does from how it is implemented or supported by technology, Object-Role Modeling (ORM)ORM (Object-Role Modeling) is a fact-oriented conceptual modeling method that represents domain knowledge through object types, fact types, explicit roles, and constraints, enabling precise conceptual schemas independent of data structures, processes, or system implementation., Enterprise Architecture, Semantic Modeling
Research Areas Conceptual Modeling, Semantic Foundations, Formal Methods, Neuro-symbolic AI, Intent-Driven AI DelegatesIntent-Driven AI Delegates are AI systems that execute delegated intent within defined authority and constraints, grounded in conceptual schemas, with responsibility and accountability remaining human.
Application Domains Banking/Fintech, Payment Systems, Ad Tech, API Integration
Technical Focus Conceptual SchemasConceptual Schema is a formal model that captures the relevant conceptual distinctions of a domain—objects, relationships, constraints, and rules—independent of implementation or execution. and Semantic Foundations, Integration Architecture, IntentIntent is a modeled expression of purpose that connects conceptual distinctions to goals, situations, and expected outcomes without prescribing execution.-Driven AI-Assisted Development

Tools & Demonstrations

Credit Card Approval System Demo

This demonstration application was built using the ORM Toolkit with AI code assistance. It shows how formal conceptual models drive intelligent decision systems with explainable logic and semanticSemantics refers to the explicit modeling of conceptual distinctions in a conceptual schema, supporting shared meaning, reasoning, and action through use, interpretation, and refinement over time. validation—the same approach I apply to API integration projects.

These tools demonstrate how rigorous conceptual models can power explainable decision logic in real applications.

What It Demonstrates:

  • Dynamic business rules (not hardcoded logic)
  • Explainable decision-making
  • AI-assisted development with formal foundations
  • Practical application of ORM methodology
Try the Demo

ORM Modeler — Proof of Concept

Web-based conceptual modeling tool for Object-Role Modeling. Features AI-powered assistance for model creation and validation.

Launch ORM Modeler

Documentation & Background:

Note: This is a proof-of-concept. Access as guest (5 AI requests/hour) or with Google sign-in (unlimited). Publishing service currently disabled.

Research & Publications

Modeling

Technical

Outside the Box

Core Capabilities

Conceptual Modeling

Design precise, formal models of business domains using DEMO and ORM methodologies to create foundations for intelligent systems.

Formal Semantic Foundations

Develop structured semantic representations that support reasoning, explainability, and intentIntent is a modeled expression of purpose that connects conceptual distinctions to goals, situations, and expected outcomes without prescribing execution.-driven, AI-assisted decision-making in complex domains.

API Integration Architecture

Design and implement complex API integrations for Banking as a Service, Ad Tech, and multi-provider systems using systematic methodology.

Hybrid AI Systems

Integrate symbolic logic with learning systems to create explainable and robust neuro-symbolic AI applications.

Proof-of-Concept Development

Build working POCs using AI-assisted development and formal modeling to validate feasibility and demonstrate technical approach.

Technical Product Management

Lead implementation teams through complex integration projects with systematic methodology and clear architectural guidance.

Contact

Interested in discussing knowledge modeling, conceptual schemasConceptual Schema is a formal model that captures the relevant conceptual distinctions of a domain—objects, relationships, constraints, and rules—independent of implementation or execution. and semanticSemantics refers to the explicit modeling of conceptual distinctions in a conceptual schema, supporting shared meaning, reasoning, and action through use, interpretation, and refinement over time. foundations, or potential collaboration? Feel free to reach out.

Email: gsawatzky@knowledge-foundation.ai