Business process modeling

Business process modeling (BPM) is the action of capturing and representing processes of an enterprise (i.e. modeling them), so that the current business processes may be analyzed, applied securely and consistently, improved, and automated.

BPM is typically performed by business analysts, with subject matter experts collaborating with these teams to accurately model processes. It is primarily used in business process management, software development, or systems engineering.

Alternatively, process models can be directly modeled from IT systems, such as event logs.

According to the Association of Business Process Management Professionals (ABPMP), business process modeling is one of the five key disciplines within business process management (BPM).

The five disciplines are:

Process modeling: Creating visual or structured representations of business processes to understand how they function.

Process analysis: Examining existing (“as-is”) processes and assessing how well they align with organizational goals.

Process design: Redesigning or optimizing processes through methods such as business process reengineering.