SBVR_ — Definition of 'fact type'

Name: Definition of 'fact type'
Doc: dtc/06-08-05
Date: August 2006
Version: Interim Convenience Document
Chapter: 8.1.1

Description:

In clause 8.1.1, the key concept 'fact type' is defined as:
"concept whose instances are all actualities and that is a basis for atomic formulation, having at least one role".
And 'noun concept' is defined as: "concept that is not a fact type"

This effectively makes all forms of 'concept' in SBVR dependent on whether or not they are the "basis for atomic formulation", which is a form of representation. It makes the whole idea of being able to separate meaning from formulation/representation a sham. The reference to atomic formulation is out of place and unnecessary.

Recommendation:

In 8.1.1, Replace the definition of 'fact type' with:
"concept whose instances are all actualities in which at least one role is distinguished, and which differ from one another in the things that play the roles."

Add a Note:

Note: An actuality in which roles are not distinguished is an instance of a noun concept, not a fact type. But whether roles are distinguished or not is a part of the conceptualization of the situation that is the actuality.

Change the definitions of 'noun concept' and 'fact type'.