Modeling with the Editor

After you have gotten to know the Explorer, let’s take the next step from managing to modeling business processes. We’ll now turn our attention to the second main component of SAP Signavio Process Manager: the Graphical Editor. This lesson is focused on BPMN 2.0, but don’t forget, the Editor supports many different diagram types. Included are also DMN 1.2 diagrams, which model decisions and their executable logic, as well as ArchiMate 3.0, which models the enterprise architecture complementary to business processes.

Watch the video below to see how modeling with the Editor looks like in practice. The following sections will then dive deeper into its additional features.

As explained in the previous lesson, attributes can be considered an additional information level that enriches your diagrams with extra details and documents. In the video above, we supplemented our process with a documentation by simply adding a process description to it. The attribute panel, however, allows you to add lots of further information to your diagram. In addition to the default attributes, the workspace administrator can set up custom attributes that meet your organization’s needs. After setting them up, the administrator can also define the rules for their visualization. As a modeler, you should know how to add custom attributes to your processes, as well as how to view their assigned icons in the Process Collaboration Hub. The following video will teach you both.

After you’re done with modeling your process and adding information to it, the Editor automatically checks whether your diagram is compliant once you save it. Let’s take a closer look at the aspects of your model that are examined.

First, the syntax is checked. It relates to the basic rules of BPMN and verifies that all diagram elements are connected and used correctly. By highlighting any deviance from the norm, the syntax checks keep your process models consistent, while also making you more familiarized with BPMN. Furthermore, conformance with the notation is necessary to create accurate reports and conduct simulations – more on both later in this unit.

Concurrently, further modeling conventions are checked. These rules can concern naming or attribute usage, ensuring uniformity and quality across all diagrams. Depending on your organization’s needs, they can also be customized or defined anew.

Watch the following video to see these features in action. Keep in mind, in addition to the Save, you can also use the Review button in the toolbar to initiate a check. All errors, warnings, and hints will be displayed in the panel below your model. Click the Link icon in the description to access further guideline information.

Depending on the languages spoken at your company, the workspace administrator can make multiple languages available. This feature influences how diagrams and further entries can be viewed in the Editor and the Process Collaboration Hub. There is no need for you to create copies of your processes to present them in a different language. In the Editor, simply switch between the active languages and translate your diagrams directly there or by applying other options for automatic translation.