1 What’s in a process

This chapter introduces you to Business Process Management (BPM), and the important terminology used, as you embark on the path to learn this technology. I begin with a process and what is within the context of BPM. As you explore JBoss BPM there are three important aspects that support integrating business activities into the processes you are developing. These aspects are business rules, business events and business processes. I discuss each and provide an overview showing how each can be used to support your process development projects.

Next up is a tour of the community of Open Source projects that make up the JBoss BPM product eco-system.  Projects are highlighted, specifically how project code is integrated into a supported JBoss BPM Suite product. These communities allow you to keep an eye on the research and development being done in the area of rules, events and processes. You have the ability to influence the direction of this technology by providing direct feedback or code contributions.

1.1   Introducing BPM

1.2   An introduction to rules, events and processes[2]

1.2.1   What are business rules?

1.2.2   What are business events?

1.2.3   What are business processes?

1.3   Understanding the role of community projects

1.4   Meet the JBoss BPM Suite

1.4.1   Introducing the core runtime engines

1.4.2   Modeling tools for all your BPM needs

1.4.3   Looking at the BPM analysis tooling

1.4.4   Execution management made easy

1.4.5   Providing the necessary reporting and monitoring tools

1.4.6   The supporting components

1.5   Summary