Heterogeneity and distribution are becoming key properties of both high-performance integrated circuits and real-time embedded systems. For instance, the embedded electronics of a modern car includes a heterogeneous mix of components (ECUs, sensors, actuators) and networks (CAN, FlexRay, MOST) that constitutes a distributed architecture. The key to addressing distribution challenges is the development of methodologies based on formal methods that enable modularity, flexibility, and reusability in system design. By working at the system level, UC-Berkeley researcher, Luca Carloni, illustrates how these methodologies can take advantage of the commonalities that exist between IC design and embedded software programming. From the Series:CSE Colloquia - 2004