Applying Graph Reduction Techniques for Identifying Structural Conflicts in Process Models

Abstract. The foundation of a process model lies in its control flow specifications. Using a generic process modeling language for workflows, we show how a control flow specification may contain certain structural conflicts that could compromise its correct execution. In general, identification of such conflicts is a computationally complex problem and requires development of effective algorithms specific for target system language. We present a visual verification approach and algorithm that employs a set of graph reduction rules to identify structural conflicts in process models for a generic workflow modeling language. We also provide insights into the correctness and complexity of the reduction process. The main contribution of the paper is a new technique for satisfying well-defined correctness criteria in process models.

• Type: Conference
• Year: 1999
• Where: CAISE
• Authors: Wasim Sadiq, Maria E. Orlowska
• Keywords: CAISE 1999, Control Flow Specification, Information Management, Process Models, Structural Conflicts