How to Create CMMN with Visual Paradigm Desktop: A Step-by-Step Guide

Case Management Model and Notation (CMMN) is the preferred standard for modeling « unstructured » processes—work that depends on human judgment and shifting events rather than a rigid, predefined sequence. Unlike a standard flowchart, a CMMN model describes what *can* happen rather than what *must* happen. In this chapter, we will walk through the practical steps to build a professional CMMN Case Plan Model using the Visual Paradigm Desktop client.

Step 1: Initializing your CMMN Project

To begin, launch Visual Paradigm Desktop. If you are starting a new project, go to File > New Project. Once your project environment is ready, you can create a new Case Plan Model by following these navigation steps:

1. Select Diagram > New from the main menu.
2. Select CMMN Diagram in the New Diagram window.
3. Give your diagram a descriptive name that reflects the business case, such as « Insurance Claim Handling » or « Patient Triage Case. »

Step 2: Defining the Case Plan Model Container

Every CMMN diagram starts with a Case Plan Model, represented by a large folder shape. This is the boundary for your case. To create a Case Plan Model, select Case (Case Plan Model) from the palette on the left. Enter the name of the case.

Step 3: Adding Case Elements: Tasks, Stages, and Milestones

The power of CMMN modeling in Visual Paradigm lies in its specialized tool palette. You can populate your case using the following core elements:

• Tasks: Drag « Human Tasks » or « Process Tasks » onto the canvas. Use the Resource Catalog (the small icon that appears when you hover over a shape) to quickly connect related elements.
• Stages: Use Stages to group related activities. Stages can be « expanded » to show internal tasks or « collapsed » to keep the diagram clean.
• Milestones: Place Milestones to represent specific goals or achievements within the case life cycle. These are critical for tracking progress in non-linear workflows.
• Discretionary Items: One of the unique features of CMMN is the ability to define tasks that are only available at the case worker’s discretion. In Visual Paradigm, you can toggle the « Discretionary » property in the specification window to add the dashed border notation.

Step 4: Managing Logic with Sentries and On-Part Links

In declarative modeling, logic is handled by Sentries (represented by small diamond icons). A Sentry determines when a task or stage is enabled or terminated based on specific events or conditions. To create a Sentry in Visual Paradigm:

1. Select the On-Part connector from the diagram toolbar.

2. Click on the source element (e.g., a completed task) and drag it to the target element (e.g., a criterion).

Start Modeling Dynamic Cases Today

Visual Paradigm Desktop provides the most intuitive interface for managing complex, event-driven business logic. By mastering CMMN, you allow your organization to handle variability and exceptions with the same professional rigor as your standard processes.