Process-Based Material Workflow Modeling in Inbound Logistics: Modeling Tools Evaluation

This paper evaluates the suitability of the workflow modeling tools through process-based material workflow perspective. A case example in inbound logistics system of “Resource Reception” workflow at the highest domain abstract level is examined with four nominated workflow modeling standards of Data Flow Diagram (DFD), Event-based Process Control (EPC), Business Process Model and Notation (BPMN) and Unified Modeling Language (UML) Activity Diagrams (AD). Focusing on the physical object diagraming syntax and semantics, the essential factors of the flows, consumption pattern and states for physical objects as well as readability, easiness and comprehensiveness of the modeling tools were discussed throughout the modeling development. The models and comparative evaluation results clearly demonstrates the superiority and advantages of using UML Ads at the workflow modeling providing an extensive view of the whole system functionalities and behavior fulfilling the necessity of capturing any undepicted entity that might hold the key of improvement in Business Process Management (BPM).