How to Download BPMN 2.0 and Why You Should Use It
If you are looking for a way to design, document, and communicate your business processes, you might want to consider using Business Process Model and Notation (BPMN) 2.0. BPMN 2.0 is an open standard notation system that allows you to create graphical diagrams that represent your business workflows in a clear and understandable way.
In this article, we will explain what BPMN 2.0 is, what are its benefits, and what are the main elements and symbols that you need to know. We will also show you how to download BPMN 2.0 tools, both web-based and desktop, and how to use them to create your own BPMN diagrams. Finally, we will provide you with some examples of BPMN diagrams for different scenarios, as well as some tips and best practices for BPMN modeling.
download bpmn 2.0
What is BPMN 2.0?
BPMN 2.0 is a standard way to represent business processes from beginning to end. It is designed to remove the ambiguity of process specifications and provide the context needed to complete it. As process mapping is often very complex and confusing, BPMN 2.0 provides a universal solution that uses standard modeling techniques and standardized symbols, allowing process models to be easily shared and read by anyonewhether technical or non-technical.
A brief history of BPMN
BPMN was first developed by the Business Process Management Initiative (BPMI) in 2004 as a response to the need for a common language for business process modeling. In 2005, BPMI merged with the Object Management Group (OMG), an international consortium that develops standards for software engineering. In 2011, OMG released the second version of BPMN, known as BPMN 2.0, which added new features such as collaboration diagrams, choreography diagrams, conversation diagrams, and executable models.
The benefits of BPMN 2.0
All organizations can benefit from improved business processes supported by BPMN 2.0. With business process modeling software, you can create simple or complex diagramswhatever your process requires. The flowcharts you make can easily be recognized and understood by stakeholders, whether they have a technical background or not.
Some of the benefits of BPMN 2.0 are:
Understanding. As you create BPMN diagrams that all teams can decipher, intricate and complex workflows become easier to understand. It allows businesses to define their business procedures.
Standardization. Having one solution in place allows information to be quickly sharedand understood by everyone. BPMN works as a standard notation for all levels of your stakeholders.
Simplicity. Diagrams are a visual learning tool, making them easier to understand than narrative text. Its also an industry standard, so theres little room for error.
Communication. BPMN helps bridge the communication gap between various teams, departments, and organizations by designing flowcharts that all department levels can understand.
Collaboration. BPMN brings all relevant stakeholders into the process, making it an effective collaboration tool. Multiple departments can review your flowchart and almost immediately identify the business process, outcomes for your team, and next steps without much detail.
Empowerment. As. As you create and improve your business processes, you can also monitor and optimize them using BPMN 2.0. It allows you to identify bottlenecks, inefficiencies, and risks in your workflows and take corrective actions.
The main elements and symbols of BPMN 2.0
BPMN 2.0 consists of four basic categories of elements and symbols that you can use to create your diagrams. These are:
Flow objects. These are the main components of a BPMN diagram that represent the activities, events, and gateways in a process. Activities are tasks or sub-processes that are performed by a person or a system. Events are triggers that start, end, or affect the flow of a process. Gateways are decision points that control the branching and merging of the flow based on conditions or rules.
Connecting objects. These are the lines that connect the flow objects and show the sequence, message, or association of the elements. Sequence flows show the order of execution of the activities and events. Message flows show the communication between two participants or pools in a process. Association flows show the link between an artifact or text annotation and a flow object.
Swimlanes. These are graphical containers that group the flow objects into different categories based on their roles, responsibilities, or functions. Swimlanes can be either horizontal or vertical and can be further divided into lanes to show more details. Pools represent the main participants or entities involved in a process, such as organizations, departments, or systems. Lanes represent the sub-participants or sub-entities within a pool, such as teams, roles, or positions.
Artifacts. These are supplementary elements that provide additional information or documentation for a process. Artifacts can be data objects, groups, or text annotations. Data objects show the input or output data of an activity or a process. Groups show a logical grouping of flow objects that share a common characteristic or purpose. Text annotations provide explanatory text or comments for a flow object or a diagram.
The following table shows some examples of BPMN 2.0 elements and symbols and their meanings:
Element/Symbol
Name
Description
Task
An atomic activity that is performed by a person or a system.
Sub-process
A compound activity that consists of other activities and events.
Start event
An event that initiates a process or a sub-process.
End event
An event that terminates a process or a sub-process.
Intermediate event
An event that occurs during the course of a process or a sub-process.
Exclusive gateway
A decision point that splits or merges the flow based on a condition or a choice.
Parallel gateway
A synchronization point that splits or merges the flow concurrently.
Sequence flow
A line that shows the order of execution of the flow objects.
Message flow
A line that shows the communication between two participants or pools.
Pool
A container that represents a main participant or entity in a process.
Lane
A sub-container that represents a sub-participant or sub-entity within a pool.
Data object
An artifact that shows the input or output data of an activity or a process.
Group
An artifact that shows a logical grouping of flow objects.
Text annotation
An artifact that provides explanatory text or comments for a flow object or a diagram.
How to download BPMN 2.0 tools
There are many BPMN 2.0 tools available in the market, both free and paid, that you can use to create and edit your BPMN diagrams. Depending on your preferences and needs, you can choose between web-based tools or desktop tools. Web-based tools are online applications that run on your browser and allow you to access your diagrams from anywhere and collaborate with others. Desktop tools are software programs that you need to install on your computer and allow you to work offline and have more features and functionalities.
Web-based tools
Some examples of web-based BPMN 2.0 tools are:
How to download bpmn 2.0 symbols reference guide
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Download bpmn 2.0 collaboration diagram and message flow examples
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How to download bpmn 2.0 transaction subprocess and compensation examples
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Download bpmn 2.0 exclusive gateway and decision examples
Download bpmn 2.0 parallel gateway and synchronization examples
Download bpmn 2.0 inclusive gateway and branching examples
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Download bpmn 2.0 complex gateway and merging examples
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Camunda Web Modeler
Camunda Web Modeler is a free online tool that allows you to create BPMN 2.0 diagrams, as well as DMN (Decision Model and Notation) and CMMN (Case Management Model and Notation) diagrams. You can sign up for an account and start modeling right away, or you can use the demo mode without registration. You can save your diagrams in the cloud or download them as XML files. You can also share your diagrams with others via links or embed them in your website.</p bpmn.io
bpmn.io is another free online tool that allows you to create BPMN 2.0 diagrams, as well as DMN and CMMN diagrams. You can start modeling without registration or sign up for a free account to save your diagrams in the cloud. You can also download your diagrams as XML, SVG, or PNG files. You can share your diagrams with others via links or embed them in your website. You can also import and export diagrams from other BPMN tools.
Desktop tools
Some examples of desktop BPMN 2.0 tools are:
Camunda Modeler
Camunda Modeler is a free desktop tool that allows you to create BPMN 2.0 diagrams, as well as DMN and CMMN diagrams. You can download it from the Camunda website and install it on your Windows, Mac, or Linux computer. You can save your diagrams as XML files and export them as SVG or PNG files. You can also import and export diagrams from other BPMN tools. You can also execute your BPMN diagrams using the Camunda Platform, which is an open source workflow and decision automation engine.
Microsoft Visio
Microsoft Visio is a paid desktop tool that allows you to create BPMN 2.0 diagrams, as well as other types of diagrams such as flowcharts, org charts, network diagrams, etc. You can buy it from the Microsoft website or get it as part of the Microsoft 365 subscription. You can save your diagrams as VSDX files and export them as PDF, SVG, or PNG files. You can also import and export diagrams from other BPMN tools. You can also integrate your BPMN diagrams with other Microsoft applications such as Excel, Word, PowerPoint, etc.
How to use BPMN 2.0 tools
Once you have chosen a BPMN 2.0 tool that suits your needs, you can start creating your own BPMN diagrams following some basic steps:
Basic steps for creating a BPMN diagram
Define the scope and purpose of your process. Before you start modeling, you need to have a clear idea of what you want to achieve with your diagram and what are the boundaries and constraints of your process. For example, you need to know who are the participants involved, what are the inputs and outputs, what are the goals and objectives, what are the risks and opportunities, etc.
Create a pool and lanes for each participant. After you have defined the scope and purpose of your process, you need to identify the main participants or entities that are involved in the process and create a pool for each one of them. If you need to show more details about the roles or functions within each participant, you can create lanes within each pool.
Add flow objects to represent the activities, events, and gateways. Next, you need to add the flow objects that represent the activities that are performed by each participant, the events that trigger or affect the process, and the gateways that control the branching and merging of the flow. You can use different types of flow objects depending on the nature and characteristics of each element.
Connect the flow objects with connecting objects. Then, you need to connect the flow objects with connecting objects that show the sequence, message, or association of the elements. You can use different types of connecting objects depending on the type and direction of the connection.
Add artifacts to provide additional information or documentation. Finally, you can add artifacts that provide additional information or documentation for your process. You can use different types of artifacts depending on the type and content of the information.
You can also use colors, fonts, icons, images, or other visual elements to enhance your diagram and make it more appealing and understandable.
Tips and best practices for BPMN modeling
To create effective and efficient BPMN diagrams, you should follow some tips and best practices such as:
Use descriptive names for your elements. You should use clear and concise names for your pools, lanes, activities, events, gateways, etc., that describe their purpose and function in the process. Avoid using generic or ambiguous names that might confuse or mislead the readers.
Use consistent notation and style. You should use consistent notation and style throughout your diagram and across different diagrams. For example, you should use the same symbols for the same types of elements, use the same colors for the same categories of elements, use the same fonts for the same levels of headings, etc.
Use simple and logical flows. You should use simple and logical flows that follow the natural order of the process and avoid unnecessary complexity or confusion. For example, you should avoid crossing or overlapping lines, use as few gateways as possible, use clear conditions or labels for the branches, etc.
Use the appropriate level of detail. You should use the appropriate level of detail for your diagram depending on the purpose and audience of your process. For example, you can use sub-processes to hide or show the details of a complex activity, you can use different levels of abstraction to show different perspectives of a process, you can use different types of diagrams to show different aspects of a process, etc.
Validate and verify your diagram. You should validate and verify your diagram before you share it with others or use it for execution. For example, you can check for errors or inconsistencies in your notation, syntax, or logic, you can test your diagram for functionality and performance, you can review your diagram with stakeholders and experts, etc.
Examples of BPMN diagrams for different scenarios
To give you some inspiration and guidance, here are some examples of BPMN diagrams for different scenarios:
Example 1: Online shopping process
This BPMN diagram shows the online shopping process from the customer's perspective. It includes the following elements:
A pool for the customer and a pool for the online store.
A start event that initiates the process when the customer visits the online store website.
An exclusive gateway that splits the flow based on whether the customer is registered or not.
A task for registering a new account or logging in to an existing account.
A sub-process for browsing and selecting products.
An intermediate event that triggers when the customer adds a product to the shopping cart.
A task for reviewing and updating the shopping cart.
An exclusive gateway that splits the flow based on whether the customer wants to continue shopping or proceed to checkout.
A sub-process for checking out and paying for the order.
An end event that terminates the process when the order is confirmed and paid.
A message flow that shows the communication between the customer and the online store.
The BPMN diagram looks like this:
Example 2: Employee onboarding process
This BPMN diagram shows the employee onboarding process from the employer's perspective. It includes the following elements:
A pool for the employer and a pool for the employee.
A start event that initiates the process when a new employee is hired.
A parallel gateway that splits the flow into three concurrent sub-processes: preparing the workstation, setting up the IT access, and conducting the orientation.A parallel gateway that merges the flow when all the sub-processes are completed.
An end event that terminates the process when the employee is onboarded.
A message flow that shows the communication between the employer and the employee.
The BPMN diagram looks like this:
Example 3: Travel booking process
This BPMN diagram shows the travel booking process from the traveler's perspective. It includes the following elements:
A pool for the traveler and a pool for the travel agency.
A start event that initiates the process when the traveler contacts the travel agency.
A task for requesting a travel quote.
An intermediate event that triggers when the travel agency sends a travel quote.
An exclusive gateway that splits the flow based on whether the traveler accepts or rejects the quote.
A task for accepting or rejecting the quote.
An end event that terminates the process when the quote is rejected.
A task for booking and paying for the travel.
An end event that terminates the process when the travel is booked and paid.
A message flow that shows the communication between the traveler and the travel agency.
The BPMN diagram looks like this:
Conclusion
Summary of the main points
In this article, we have learned how to download BPMN 2.0 and why you should use it. We have explained what BPMN 2.0 is, what are its benefits, and what are the main elements and symbols that you need to know. We have also shown you how to download BPMN 2.0 tools, both web-based and desktop, and how to use them to create your own BPMN diagrams. Finally, we have provided you with some examples of BPMN diagrams for different scenarios, as well as some tips and best practices for BPMN modeling.
Call to action and resources
If you are interested in learning more about BPMN 2.0 and how to apply it to your business processes, we recommend you to check out the following resources:
. This is the definitive source of information about BPMN 2.0, published by OMG. It contains all the details and rules about BPMN 2.0 notation, syntax, semantics, and execution.
. This is a comprehensive tutorial that covers all aspects of BPMN 2.0, from basic concepts to advanced topics. It includes examples, exercises, quizzes, and videos to help you learn BPMN 2.0 in an interactive way.
. This is a collection of BPMN 2.0 diagrams for various domains and scenarios, such as e-commerce, banking, healthcare, education, etc. You can view, download, edit, and share these diagrams using bpmn.io or other BPMN tools.
We hope you have enjoyed this article and found it useful. If you have any questions or feedback, please feel free to contact us or leave a comment below. And if you are ready to start creating your own BPMN diagrams, why not download one of the BPMN tools we have mentioned and give it a try? You will be amazed by how much you can improve your business processes with BPMN 2.0!
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about BPMN 2.0:
What is the difference between BPMN 1.x and BPMN 2.0?
BPMN 1.x was the first version of BPMN that was released in 2004 by BPMI. It was mainly focused on providing a graphical notation for business process modeling, but it did not define a formal execution semantics or a standard interchange format. BPMN 2.0 was released in 2011 by OMG as an update and extension of BPMN 1.x. It added new features such as collaboration diagrams, chore ography diagrams, conversation diagrams, and executable models. It also defined a formal execution semantics and a standard interchange format for BPMN models.
What are the advantages of using BPMN 2.0 over other process modeling languages?
BPMN 2.0 has several advantages over other process modeling languages, such as:
It is an open and widely adopted standard that is supported by many tools and platforms.
It is a comprehensive and expressive language that can capture various aspects and perspectives of business processes, such as structure, behavior, interaction, data, etc.
It is a user-friendly and intuitive language that can be easily understood and communicated by both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
It is a flexible and extensible language that can be customized and adapted to different domains and scenarios.
It is an executable and interoperable language that can be directly run by BPMN engines or converted to other executable formats.
How can I learn BPMN 2.0?
There are many ways to learn BPMN 2.0, such as:
Reading the official BPMN 2.0 specification or other books and articles about BPMN 2.0.
Watching online videos or webinars that explain the concepts and features of BPMN 2.0.
Taking online courses or workshops that teach you how to use BPMN 2.0 tools and create BPMN diagrams.
Practicing with BPMN 2.0 tools and creating your own BPMN diagrams for your own processes or scenarios.
Seeking feedback and advice from BPMN experts or communities.
What are some common mistakes or pitfalls to avoid when using BPMN 2.0?
Some common mistakes or pitfalls to avoid when using BPMN 2.0 are:
Using too many or too few elements or symbols in your diagram, making it either too complex or too vague.
Using inconsistent or incorrect notation or style in your diagram, making it hard to read or understand.
Using inappropriate or unclear names for your elements, making it difficult to identify their purpose or function.
Using incorrect or incomplete logic or rules in your diagram, making it invalid or inaccurate.Ignoring the scope and purpose of your process, making it irrelevant or incomplete.
Where can I find more BPMN 2.0 examples and templates?
There are many online sources where you can find more BPMN 2.0 examples and templates, such as:
. This is a collection of BPMN 2.0 diagrams for various domains and scenarios, such as e-commerce, banking, healthcare, education, etc. You can view, download, edit, and share these diagrams using bpmn.io or other BPMN tools.
. This is a collection of BPMN 2.0 templates that you can use as a starting point for your own BPMN diagrams. You can customize and modify these templates according to your needs and preferences.
. This is a gallery of BPMN 2.0 diagrams created by other users and experts. You can browse, rate, comment, and learn from these diagrams.
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