Almost all companies have a pretty good idea of the various business processes that drive their day-to-day operations. However, if they need to ensure that these processes lead to optimal results on a sustained basis, a “pretty good performance” is not enough. Business process modeling offers companies an easy way to understand and optimize workflows. In the following article we explain everything about process modeling and how you can best implement it with BPMN software.

Definition process modeling

A business process model (BPM) is a graphical representation of a business process and its associated sub-processes. Comprehensive flowcharts are created during process modeling. These provide important insights into how certain workflows work. Process modeling generally includes events and activities that occur within a process (e.g., hiring or leaving an employee). Furthermore, responsibilities as well as information and equipment necessary for the process are defined. Also described are decision points that workflows can take based on different outcomes. In addition, process modeling performed according to standards indicates deadlines and timelines for the individual steps.

In Germany, one of the most frequently used notation standards is the so-called BPMN notation.

Definition BPMN

The abbreviation BPMN stands for Business Process Model and Notation and is a kind of universal language for processes. BPMN 2.0 in particular is ideal for modeling a wide variety of processes. It follows certain notation rules and is both very intuitive to use and clearly understandable to any collaborator. The reason for this is that the language is displayed visually and does not have to be programmed or entered via continuous text.

Example of process modeling with BPMN software

Even a simple example shows how powerful a BPMN modeling software (in this case PIPEFORCE) can be. A process with several participants – in this case internal and external persons – can be represented simply and clearly.

 

 

Responsibilities are clearly defined here, necessary information and documents are specified, and the time sequence of tasks is determined. Contingencies can also be easily represented in BPMN software.

Why process modeling with BPMN software?

First of all, as mentioned at the beginning, BPMN is one of the most widely used notation standards. This makes it extremely useful across industries because it means that a wide range of compatible software exists. This results in an increased usability, as BPMN models can be used for example in the following areas exported from BPMN modeling software and imported into workflow automation software.

Due to its simple logic, BPMN is easy to learn even without great expertise. Most BPMN software programs offer a clear navigation that leads to an extremely intuitive operation. These two points enormously facilitate a new introduction of BMPN software in companies and eliminate the need for time-consuming training of employees.

However, the biggest advantage of modeling with BPMN software is the order that capturing the processes brings. In a business world where workflows are becoming increasingly global and interconnected, digital process modeling holds huge potential because it brings structure to the everyday chaos of those involved. The clear definition of the processes makes it possible to maintain an overview even with many participants. This makes workflows easier to understand. This applies not only to employees already involved, but also to newcomers in onboarding or executive management. This results in savings of time, money and, above all, nerves, because only a precise understanding of the current processes and potential problem areas enables a lasting process optimization.

BPMN Software – Conclusion:

The use of BPMN software to capture processes is associated with many benefits and enables the subsequent exploitation of high potential. The user-friendliness of the programs makes it possible for people without much expertise to use this software. This results in a high level of acceptance among employees. A possible disadvantage of the software programs is that most of them can only be used to display processes, but not to exploit the process potential (optimization and digitization). Software solutions such as PIPEFORCE combine BPMN modeling with process digitization and subsequent process optimization. This eliminates the need to purchase different software licenses and avoids friction losses when transferring BPM.

 

You want to learn more about the practical application? Create a free account now and test PIPEFORCE today!