Effective process modeling is crucial for any business aiming to enhance efficiency and streamline operations. If you’re looking to improve your workflows, understanding the methods available to you is key. In this article, we’ll explore two of the most recognized notations in process modeling: BPMN (Business Process Model and Notation) and ISO 5807. By examining their features, advantages, and limitations, you’ll be well-prepared to choose the one that best suits your organization’s needs.

What is BPMN?

BPMN is a standardized notation that transforms business process modeling into a clear and engaging visual experience. It provides a set of graphical symbols and rules designed to enhance communication among all stakeholders—whether they’re technical experts or business professionals.

• Advantages:
  • Standardized Notation: BPMN serves as an international standard, reducing misunderstandings and ensuring everyone has a uniform understanding of processes. Imagine having a common language that keeps your entire team on the same page!
  • Detail and Rigor: With BPMN, you can model complex processes with remarkable precision. BPMN offers symbols to represent everything from events to decisions. When using some tools, it will force you to close a loop you opened with an AND or an OR gate.
  • Interoperability: BPMN diagrams can be seamlessly integrated into information systems, allowing for the automation of workflows. In today’s fast-paced environment, this capability is invaluable.
• Limitations:
  • Complexity: For those without prior training, BPMN can seem overwhelming. The multitude of symbols and rules may confuse less tech-savvy team members.
  • Training Required: To leverage BPMN’s capabilities, some training is usually necessary, requiring an investment of time and resources.
• Some Tools: Bizagi, Camunda, Lucidchart, Signavio, Draw.io.
• Use Cases: Ideal for complex processes that require detailed analysis.

What is ISO 5807?

ISO 5807 is an international standard that offers a simplified alternative to BPMN. It employs more intuitive symbols, making it accessible to a broader audience.

• Advantages:
  • Simplicity and Accessibility: ISO 5807 uses straightforward, easy-to-understand symbols, making it approachable even for those unfamiliar with process modeling. Imagine explaining complex concepts to your team without getting bogged down in technical jargon!
  • Vulgarization: This notation is perfect for presentations and training sessions, allowing you to convey information clearly and concisely. How much more effective could your meetings be if you simplified everything for your audience?
• Limitations:
  • Less Detail: For complex processes, ISO 5807 may lack the rigor that BPMN provides. In these situations, it’s crucial to assess whether this notation meets your technical requirements.
  • Less International Recognition: While ISO 5807 is recognized, it doesn’t have the same global reach as BPMN. This might pose challenges in contexts where process harmonization on a global scale is needed.
• Some Tools: Lucidchart, Draw.io, Creately, SmartDraw.
• Use Cases: Useful for simpler processes that require a visual for communication and collaboration.

When to Choose Which Notation?

To help you decide, here’s a handy comparison:

Key Decision Factors	BPMN	ISO 5807
Technologically Mature Audience	Best Choice	Less Suitable
Need for Rigor	Preferred	Less Suitable
Simplification	Less Appropriate	More Appropriate

Conclusion

At Akiri Consultants, we believe that the choice of notation should be driven by the specific needs of each project and audience. For some clients, we require the rigor of BPMN for complex processes and others we prefer the clarity of ISO 5807 for ease of communication.

Do you agree? We’d love to hear from you!