Combining Process Modelling and Case Modeling

Abstract

Adaptive Case Management deals with processes that are not predefined or repeatable, but depend on evolving circumstances and decisions regarding a particular situation. While case management is often considered as different from conventional business process management, in reality they cannot be strictly separated. A structured business process can contain parts which deal with non-routine cases. The Object Management Group (OMG) published the Business Process Model & Notation (BPMN) as well as the Case Management Model & Notation (CMMN). There is an ongoing debate whether these two languages should be combined are kept independent. After a short introduction into CMMN and BPMN we analyse an application process as it is typical for public administration in order to identify strengths and weaknesses of both BPMN and CMMN. We show that typical processes contain both structured and non-structured parts and neither BPMN nor CMMN alone is adequate to model the process. Finally, we propose recommendations for a metamodel, which combines elements of BPMN and CMMN.