This thesis proposes a novel approach to accessing information stored in legacy relational databases (RDB), based on Semantic Web and multiagent systems technologies. It introduces an architectural model of the Semantic Report Generation System (SRGS), designed to address the rising demand for flexible access to information in decision support systems. SRGS is composed of server Database Subsystems (DBS) and client User Subsystems (US). In a DBS, an agent interacts with the administrator to build a reference ontology from the RDB schema, which enables semantic queries without modifying the database. In a US, the decision-making user accesses the system through a simplified natural language interface, using customized extensions to the reference ontology that was imported from DBS an agent helps build the custom ontology, and facilitates query formulation and report generation. The proposed approach is illustrated by several scenarios that highlight the key behavioral aspects of accessing information and developing ontologies. --P. ii.
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