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.