A Kernel System for information system development, evolution, and operation

Abstract

We believe that the current boundaries and distinctions between operating systems, data base management systems (both “host language” and “self-contained”), programming language processors (both interpretive and compiled), programming support systems (library management, testing, and integration services), instructional systems, and certain other generalized data processing services, can and should be eliminated. That is, we believe that all these seemingly separate functions, which are currently separate for historical reasons as much as any other, can and should be addressed by a single integrated (but subsettable) “Kernel System”. We also believe that with the proper system architecture and implementation techniques (e.g., top-down and structured programming) and with the wholesale elimination of duplicated functions, a Kernel System can be built that would address the sum total of these functions and, at the same time, remain comparable in size and complexity to a typical self-contained data base management system alone. Further, such a structured Kernel System would be much better able to support the development, continued evolution, and operation of both itself and its applications.