Comparative Graphical Modeling of Processes in BPMN and Unit-Function-Object Notations

Abstract

Various graphical notations are used for business modeling. Currently, BPMN (Business Process Model and Notation) is considered to be the most popular one. This notation offers a number of possibilities and advantages over other notations. However, despite its primary purpose being the creation of visual flowcharts that are understandable to both clients (businesses) and technical specialists (developers, analysts), this notation has numerous drawbacks that are widely discussed by experts. The main drawbacks are related to the poor visual clarity and readability of the diagrams. Therefore, the task of accounting for and compensating for these shortcomings arises, which can be solved using a procedure previously developed by the authors for converting BPMN diagrams into UFO diagrams (those used in terms of the system-object approach Unit-Function-Object). The aim of the study is to examine the results of such a conversion using a specific example and to conduct a comparative analysis of BPMN and UFO notations. This paper examines the production process of dimethylaminobenzoic acid ethyl ester and constructs process diagrams in BPMN and UFO notation. Based on the specific example, we have identified the deficiencies of BPMN and found ways to mitigate them using UFO diagrams.