BPMN
BPMN (Business Process Model and Notation) is a standardized graphical language for modeling business processes using pools, lanes, gateways, activities, and events.
In depth
BPMN was created by the Object Management Group (OMG) and is the most widely-used formal notation for documenting business processes. Version 2.0 added a serialization format (BPMN XML) so models could be exchanged between tools and even executed by workflow engines.
Where simple flowcharts use four shape types, BPMN distinguishes activities (rectangles), gateways (diamonds for branching/merging), events (circles for things that happen), and sequence/message flows (arrows). Pools represent organizations and lanes represent roles within them.
OpenCharts supports BPMN-style notation as a first-class node family: pools, lanes, exclusive/parallel/inclusive gateways, start/intermediate/end events, and message flows.
Examples
- Order-to-cash with finance and fulfillment lanes
- Hire-to-retire with HR, IT, and manager pools
- Approval workflow with parallel reviewers
Also known as
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Build a BPMN diagramRelated terms
Swimlane diagram
A swimlane diagram is a flowchart that organizes activities into horizontal or vertical lanes, with each lane representing a different actor, role, or department responsible for those activities.
Process map
A process map is a visual representation of a workflow that documents the sequence of steps, decision points, and handoffs needed to complete a business outcome.
Flowchart
A flowchart is a diagram that represents a process, workflow, or algorithm using shapes (nodes) connected by arrows (edges) to show the order of steps.