This monograph presents original research results on selected problems of dependability in
contemporary Complex Information Systems (CIS). The ten chapters are concentrated around the
following three aspects: methods for modelling of the system and its components tasks - or in
more generic and more adequate interpretation functionalities - accomplished by the system and
conditions for their correct realization in the dynamic operational environment. While the main
focus is on theoretical advances and roadmaps for implementations of new technologies a much
needed forum for sharing of the best practices is also presented. CIS systems being the most
complex yet most reliable technical structures engineered by man present many challenges
throughout their lifecycle. Difficulties in modelling design implementation and maintenance
come not only from involved widely distributed technical and organizational structures
(comprising both hardware and software resources) but even more from complexity of the
information processes (data processing monitoring resource allocation dynamic
reconfiguration etc.) which are realized in the operational often hostile environment.
Furthermore all the issues need to be dealt with taking into account a number of additional
factors such as uncertainties of human interactions safety criteria and security demands or
economic and environmental constrains.
