- 1. Introduction
- 2. Understand process goals
- 3. Keep it simple
- 4. Notation standards and conventions
- 5. Appropriate levels of detail
-
6.
Focus on the process logic and sequence
- 6.1. 1- Clearly define the start and end of the process:
- 6.2. 2- Break down the process into manageable activities:
- 6.3. 3- Establish clear limits between the participants:
- 6.4. 4- Use decision gates properly:
- 6.5. 5- Identify and represent alternative and main flows:
- 6.6. 6- Consider scalability and reuse:
- 7. Documentation and comments
- 8. Validation and testing
- 9. Conclusion
Introduction
Business Process Model and Notation (BPMN) is a powerful tool for modeling, analyzing, and improving business processes. However, its effectiveness largely depends on how it is implemented. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best and most effective BPMN implementation practices and make the most of it.
Understand process goals
Before you start modeling with BPMN, it’s paramount to understand process goals and how they align with broader business objectives. This will ensure the modeled processes are relevant and aligned with the organization’s needs.
Keep it simple
One of the fundamental principles of BPMN is simplicity. Avoid the temptation to create complex models overloaded with information. Instead, it is recommended to identify the essential elements of the process and keep the diagram clean and easy to understand. Use threads and tasks to break down complex processes into smaller, more manageable units.
Notation standards and conventions
Follow BPMN notation standards and established conventions to facilitate understanding and collaboration. Use BPMN symbols and elements consistently and make sure diagrams are clear and readable to all stakeholders. To know more about notation elements, check out the article: What is BPMN?
Appropriate levels of detail
BPMN allows processes to be represented at different levels of detail. Determine the appropriate level of detail for each process model, taking into account the audience and purpose. For a high-level overview, use a higher level of abstraction; for detailed analysis or implementation, add more layers of detail.
Focus on the process logic and sequence
The sequence and logic of the process are crucial elements in BPMN. Therefore, it is necessary:
1- Clearly define the start and end of the process:
Accurately establish the start and end points of the process in the BPMN diagram. This helps to understand the scope and boundaries of the process and identify the relevant inputs and outputs.
1. Start and end steps
2- Break down the process into manageable activities:
Break the process down into small, manageable activities. This makes it easier to understand and analyze the process in detail. Use tasks and subtasks to break down activities into simple, understandable steps.
2. Application process’ tasks division
3- Establish clear limits between the participants:
When several participants or actors are involved in the process, it is essential to define clear boundaries between them. Use the pools and lanes to indicate each participant’s responsibility and interactions.
3. Roles division with lanes
4- Use decision gates properly:
Decision gates (exclusive, inclusive, and parallel gates) allow you to represent the decision-making logic within the process. Based on the decision type, use appropriate gates, and define the conditions clearly to avoid ambiguity.
4. Basic use of the exclusive gate
5- Identify and represent alternative and main flows:
In many processes, alternative or exceptional flows may exist. Identify and represent these flows along with the main flow of the process. Use specific events to indicate alternative flows’ start and end. Also, use decision gates to present the conditions that determine the different flows.
5. Decision flow with different end steps
6- Consider scalability and reuse:
When designing the process in BPMN, keep scalability and reusability in mind. Identify the parts of the process that can be reused in other contexts or could require future changes due to business evolution. This will help ensure a flexible and adaptable process as needs change over time.
Documentation and comments
Provide additional documentation and clear commentary in the diagram to help users understand the process and its context. This may include descriptions of activities, relevant business rules, or any other information that can help users understand and execute the process correctly.
Validation and testing
Before implementing a BPMN-modeled process, perform extensive testing and validation to ensure the model works as intended. This includes checking the process’ sequence, conditions, and flows, as well as its integration with other activities or systems.
Conclusion
Effective BPMN implementation practices are essential to get the most out of this process modeling tool. By following these recommendations, organizations can ensure the effectiveness of their BPMN-modeled processes and reap the desired benefits, such as improved efficiencies, reduced costs, and streamlined workflows.
It is important to note that a successful BPMN implementation is not just about creating graphics, but also its practical application. Therefore, it is recommended that organizations provide adequate training to their staff on BPMN and promote a culture of continuous improvement in process management. If you need us to collaborate in this training, please do not hesitate to contact us.
