Business process modeling
Business process modeling is the creation of a visual graphic description of a company's work, which makes it possible to find bottlenecks, standardize operations and prepare processes for automation.
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What is business process modeling
Business process modeling is the activity of creating a simplified, visual representation of a company's work that shows the sequence of actions, resources, performers, input and output data, as well as the results of each stage. The main goal of modeling is to find bottlenecks, duplicated operations, redundant approvals and other inefficiencies, and then standardize the work and prepare processes for automation to increase profit and efficiency. Modeling is closely related to business process management (BPM) and automation (BPMS). The created models are used as the basis for the implementation of low-code platforms, document workflow systems and ERP systems.
Main stages of modeling
The business process modeling process includes several sequential stages, each of which is critically important for obtaining a quality result. The first stage is information collection. Interviews with employees and managers are conducted, existing regulations and instructions are analyzed, and observation of process execution is carried out. The result of this stage is a description of the current state of the process — the AS-IS model. The second stage is the description of processes in the chosen notation. A modeling language (BPMN, IDEF0, EPC) is chosen and diagrams are drawn using specialized tools. The third stage is analysis and optimization. On the basis of the created diagrams, duplicated actions, delays, extra stages, unjustified approvals, bottlenecks and time losses are identified. The fourth stage is the design of the future state (TO-BE). An improved scheme of work is created, in which all identified problems are optimized and the foundations for automation are laid. The fifth stage is the implementation of changes and automation. Optimized processes are integrated with BPMS for automatic execution. The sixth stage is constant monitoring and improvement (PDCA cycle).
Popular modeling notations
Various languages and standards are used for modeling, each of which has its own features and areas of application. BPMN (Business Process Model and Notation) is the most popular international standard, ideal for understanding by all participants: from manager to IT developer. IDEF0 is a method of structural analysis used to build a functional model of a system at a high level. EPC (Event-driven Process Chain) is a scheme of a chain of event-driven processes, often used in SAP. There are also less common notations: UML Activity Diagrams, ARIS, CMMN.
Modeling tools
Various platforms and editors are used for building diagrams and automation, differing in functionality, complexity and cost. SINTEZ-M is a Russian low-code platform with graphical BPMN modeling. ELMA365 is a BPM system with modeling and automation tools. Microsoft Visio is a classic tool for simple graphic description. Draw.io is a free online diagram editor with BPMN support. Camunda Modeler is a professional BPMN editor with executable process support.
Advantages of modeling for business
The implementation of business process modeling brings organizations the following benefits. Increased transparency — all employees understand how processes work. Identification of bottlenecks. Standardization. A basis for automation — quality models are directly loaded into BPMS for automatic execution. Acceleration of decision-making. Cost reduction — elimination of inefficiencies reduces operating costs by 15-30%. Improved quality. The possibility of constant improvement.
Connection with automation and low-code platforms
Business process modeling is the foundation for automation and the implementation of low-code platforms. Process models in BPMN notation can be directly loaded into BPMS for automatic execution without writing code (low-code approach). Low-code platforms provide built-in BPMN editors that allow not only modeling processes, but also configuring their execution. This approach reduces development costs by 3-5 times compared to traditional programming. The design service helps determine goals and choose the right approach to modeling and automation.
Frequently asked questions
What notations are used for business process modeling?
The main notations: BPMN (the standard for detail and automation, supported by most BPMS), IDEF0 (for high-level functional analysis), EPC (for process modeling in SAP). The choice of notation depends on the goal.
How is the AS-IS model different from the TO-BE model?
The AS-IS model describes the current state of the process with all errors, delays and inefficiencies. The TO-BE model describes the target state after optimization and implementation of changes, including automation. The transition from AS-IS to TO-BE is the essence of business modeling.
How does modeling help automation?
Process models (especially in BPMN notation) can be directly loaded into BPMS for automatic execution. The system guides users step by step, controls deadlines and automatically transfers tasks between performers. This reduces manual labor by 30-50%.
What tools are used for modeling?
BPMN editors (Microsoft Visio, Draw.io), specialized BPMS systems (low-code platforms with built-in editors) and corporate solutions for enterprise architecture modeling (for example, ARIS) are used for modeling.
Is it difficult to learn business process modeling?
Basic BPMN modeling can be mastered in a few days. But professional modeling requires an understanding of enterprise architecture, analysis methodologies and industry knowledge. Training courses help quickly form the necessary competencies.
How often should business process models be updated?
Business process models should be reviewed and updated at least once a year, as well as for any significant changes in the company: reorganization, implementation of new systems, changes in legislation or strategy.
What mistakes are most often made in modeling?
The main mistakes: excessive detail, lack of coordination with real performers, modeling the desired instead of the actual, ignoring exceptions and errors, the absence of measurable performance indicators (KPI). Professional design helps avoid these problems.
Other terms in «Low-code»
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Business process modeling
Business process modeling is the creation of a visual graphic description of a company's work, which makes it possible to find bottlenecks, standardize operations and prepare processes for automation.
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