A Primer to Subject-Oriented Business Process Modeling

This primer aims towards quick wins in BPM based on a conceptual understanding of S-BPM modeling. We put forward the main constructs in terms of model elements and diagrams. Addressing primarily non-S-BPMexperts we introduce fundamental approaches, namely S-BPM modeling by construction (i.e., when starting from scratch), and S-BPM modeling by restriction (i.e., when refining a generalized peer-to-peer network). Since SBPM modeling is closely related to standard sentence semantics we start out revisiting essential natural language constructs (subject, predicate, and object) and their role in communication patterns between actors (subjects). We then show how S-BPM constructs can be organized and presented, and introduce interaction and behavior diagrams. Their application ensures coherent representations, and facilitates creating intelligible specifications when business processes are captured from a stakeholder perspective. Finally, we show the essential role S-BPM models play along the open S-BPM life cycle, ranging from process analysis to execution and monitoring.