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Business process engine

Business process engine definition

Business process engine refers to a software component that executes business processes described in a specific notation or format, such as the business process model and notation (BPMN). These processes are often designed using a visual interface where different tasks, decision points, and workflows are outlined.

See also: monitoring software

Business process engine components

  • Process modeler. This is often a graphical tool with a design interface allowing business analysts and process designers to map out and define business processes. The diagrams outline tasks, decision points, flow of control, and interactions with other processes or systems.
  • Execution engine. As a core of a business process engine, execution engine ensures that process models have a practical application, instead of remaining theoretical diagrams. Execution engine reads, interprets, and runs the defined process models.
  • Integration adapters. They allow business process engines to communicate and interact with other external systems, such as sending an email or updating a CRM. These adapters are crucial for efficient process automation in processes spanning multiple systems.
  • Monitoring and analytics. Monitoring is vital for ensuring that processes are efficient and regularly improved upon. Monitoring and analytics tools provide insights into the performance of business processes both in real time and via post-process analytics. For example, real-time monitoring can give a live view of ongoing processes, showing which tasks are active as well as pinpoint potential bottlenecks.