Comparing different BPMN modeling tools

Business Process Model and Notation (BPMN) is a standard for designing, documenting, and executing business processes. BPMN provides a graphical notation that is easy to understand and communicate across different stakeholders. BPMN also supports the automation and integration of business processes with various systems and technologies.

There are many BPMN modeling tools available in the market, each with its own features, advantages, and disadvantages. Choosing the right tool for your needs can be challenging, especially if you are not familiar with the different criteria and aspects to consider. In this blog post, we will compare some of the most popular and widely used BPMN modeling tools based on the following factors:

- Platform compatibility: The operating system and environment that the tool can run on, such as Windows, Linux, Mac, web browser, etc.

- BPMN version: The version of the BPMN standard that the tool supports, such as BPMN 2.0, which is the latest and most comprehensive version.

- Model processes: The ability to create and edit BPMN diagrams using graphical elements and symbols.

- Execute processes: The ability to execute and run BPMN diagrams as executable workflows or applications.

- Monitor processes: The ability to monitor and track the performance and status of executed BPMN processes.

- Other features: Any additional or unique features that the tool offers, such as simulation, collaboration, integration, reporting, etc.

CMW Platform

CMW Platform is a cloud-based BPMN tool that allows users to model, execute, and monitor business processes in a simple and intuitive way. CMW Platform supports BPMN 2.0 and offers features such as:

- Modeler: A web-based graphical editor that lets users create and modify BPMN diagrams with drag-and-drop functionality and validation rules.

- Simulation: A feature that allows users to test and analyze their BPMN diagrams before execution, using different scenarios and parameters.

- Execution: A feature that allows users to run their BPMN diagrams as cloud-based applications, without any coding or deployment required.

- Data elements: A feature that allows users to define and use data elements in their BPMN diagrams, such as variables, constants, expressions, etc.

- Monitoring: A feature that allows users to view and manage the status and performance of their executed BPMN processes, using dashboards, charts, reports, etc.

Appian BPM Suite

Appian BPM Suite is a comprehensive BPMN tool that provides users with a platform to design, automate, optimize, and transform their business processes. Appian BPM Suite supports BPMN 2.0 and offers features such as:

- Designer: A web-based graphical editor that lets users create and edit BPMN diagrams with drag-and-drop functionality and smart services.

- RPA: A feature that allows users to integrate robotic process automation (RPA) with their BPMN diagrams, using bots to automate repetitive tasks.

- AI: A feature that allows users to leverage artificial intelligence (AI) in their BPMN diagrams, using machine learning models to enhance decision making and process outcomes.

- Execution: A feature that allows users to run their BPMN diagrams as applications on any device or channel, using low-code development and cloud deployment.

- Monitoring: A feature that allows users to monitor and improve their executed BPMN processes, using analytics, reports, alerts, etc.

IBM Business Automation Workflow

IBM Business Automation Workflow is an advanced BPMN tool that helps users automate and optimize their business processes using various technologies and solutions. IBM Business Automation Workflow supports BPMN 2.0 and offers features such as:

- Modeler: A desktop-based graphical editor that lets users create and edit BPMN diagrams with drag-and-drop functionality and validation rules.

- Decision management: A feature that allows users to define and manage business rules and logic in their BPMN diagrams, using decision tables, trees, etc.

- Content management: A feature that allows users to manage documents and data in their BPMN diagrams, using repositories, metadata, etc.

- Case management: A feature that allows users to handle complex and dynamic business scenarios in their BPMN diagrams, using case types, tasks, events, etc.

- Execution: A feature that allows users to run their BPMN diagrams as workflows or applications on various platforms and environments, using Java-based development and deployment.

- Monitoring: A feature that allows users to monitor and control their executed BPMN processes, using dashboards, metrics, audits, etc.

Bizagi

Bizagi is a software platform that enables users to create, execute, and optimize business processes using BPMN. Bizagi offers a free modeler for designing BPMN diagrams, a cloud-based collaboration hub for sharing and reviewing models, and a digital automation engine for running and monitoring processes. Bizagi also provides a rich set of features to support complex scenarios, such as event-driven workflows, dynamic forms, business rules, data integration, analytics, and more.

Visio

Visio is a popular diagramming tool from Microsoft that can be used to create BPMN diagrams. Visio has a large library of shapes and symbols, and allows users to customize their diagrams with colors, fonts, and themes. Visio also supports importing and exporting BPMN files in XML format. However, Visio is not a dedicated BPMN tool, and it does not offer any functionality for executing or optimizing processes. Visio also requires a license fee to use.

Camunda

Camunda is an open-source platform that enables users to design, automate, and improve business processes using BPMN. Camunda provides a desktop modeler for creating BPMN diagrams, as well as a web-based cockpit for deploying and managing processes. Camunda also supports advanced features such as decision tables, process variables, timers, and events. However, Camunda has a steep learning curve, and it may require technical skills to configure and maintain. Camunda also lacks some of the user-friendly features that Bizagi offers, such as drag-and-drop modeling, online collaboration, and dynamic forms.

Signavio

Signavio is a cloud-based platform that enables users to model, analyze, and optimize business processes using BPMN. Signavio provides an intuitive web-based modeler for creating BPMN diagrams, as well as a collaboration portal for sharing and commenting on models. Signavio also offers a process intelligence module that allows users to monitor process performance, identify bottlenecks, and discover improvement opportunities. However, Signavio is more expensive than Bizagi, and it does not have a free version for personal or academic use. Signavio also does not have a native automation engine, and it relies on third-party integrations to execute processes.