Towards an Integrated BPM Schema: Control Flow Heterogeneity of PNML and BPEL4WS

Although there have been standardization efforts for more than ten years, heterogeneity of business process modelling schemas is still a big problem for business process management. This paper discusses the applicability of schema integration methodology in this context and illustrates specific integration problems by discussing the example of BPEL and PNML. Different control flow representations are highlighted as a major challenge in this area. Using classical schema integration and the upward inheritance principle can yield an integrated schema that still includes redundant behavioral concepts. We conclude that future research has to identify extensions to the schema integration process in order to capture such specifics of BPM schemas.