Quick Overview
- 1#1: Camunda Modeler - Free BPMN 2.0 modeling tool with collaboration, simulation, and execution deployment capabilities.
- 2#2: Bizagi Modeler - Free desktop application for creating professional BPMN process diagrams with simulation and publishing features.
- 3#3: Microsoft Visio - Powerful diagramming software with extensive BPMN stencils, data linking, and integration with Microsoft 365.
- 4#4: Lucidchart - Cloud-based diagramming platform supporting BPMN, real-time collaboration, and automation integrations.
- 5#5: Diagrams.net - Free, open-source diagramming tool with comprehensive BPMN libraries and offline capabilities.
- 6#6: SAP Signavio - Enterprise process modeling and mining platform for BPMN diagrams and continuous improvement.
- 7#7: ARIS - Comprehensive BPM suite for modeling, analysis, and governance using multiple notations like BPMN and EPC.
- 8#8: Bonita Studio - Open-source BPM modeling environment for designing executable BPMN processes with UI forms.
- 9#9: IBM Blueworks Live - Cloud service for collaborative business process modeling, discovery, and playbook creation.
- 10#10: Creately - Online visual workspace for creating BPMN diagrams with templates, collaboration, and export options.
Tools were evaluated for key features (including BPMN support, simulation, collaboration, and integration), user experience (intuitive design and learning curve), and overall value (pricing models and scalability) to ensure a balanced, practical guide.
Comparison Table
Business process modeling software simplifies workflow design and analysis, with tools suited to varying technical and visual needs. This comparison table features top options like Camunda Modeler, Bizagi Modeler, Microsoft Visio, Lucidchart, Diagrams.net, and more, guiding readers to understand key capabilities, usability, and ideal use cases.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Camunda Modeler Free BPMN 2.0 modeling tool with collaboration, simulation, and execution deployment capabilities. | specialized | 9.6/10 | 9.8/10 | 8.7/10 | 10.0/10 |
| 2 | Bizagi Modeler Free desktop application for creating professional BPMN process diagrams with simulation and publishing features. | specialized | 9.4/10 | 9.5/10 | 9.8/10 | 10.0/10 |
| 3 | Microsoft Visio Powerful diagramming software with extensive BPMN stencils, data linking, and integration with Microsoft 365. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 4 | Lucidchart Cloud-based diagramming platform supporting BPMN, real-time collaboration, and automation integrations. | creative_suite | 8.7/10 | 8.8/10 | 9.4/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 5 | Diagrams.net Free, open-source diagramming tool with comprehensive BPMN libraries and offline capabilities. | other | 8.7/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.5/10 | 10/10 |
| 6 | SAP Signavio Enterprise process modeling and mining platform for BPMN diagrams and continuous improvement. | enterprise | 8.6/10 | 9.3/10 | 8.1/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 7 | ARIS Comprehensive BPM suite for modeling, analysis, and governance using multiple notations like BPMN and EPC. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 | 6.8/10 | 7.4/10 |
| 8 | Bonita Studio Open-source BPM modeling environment for designing executable BPMN processes with UI forms. | specialized | 7.8/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.4/10 | 9.1/10 |
| 9 | IBM Blueworks Live Cloud service for collaborative business process modeling, discovery, and playbook creation. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.3/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.4/10 |
| 10 | Creately Online visual workspace for creating BPMN diagrams with templates, collaboration, and export options. | creative_suite | 8.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.1/10 |
Free BPMN 2.0 modeling tool with collaboration, simulation, and execution deployment capabilities.
Free desktop application for creating professional BPMN process diagrams with simulation and publishing features.
Powerful diagramming software with extensive BPMN stencils, data linking, and integration with Microsoft 365.
Cloud-based diagramming platform supporting BPMN, real-time collaboration, and automation integrations.
Free, open-source diagramming tool with comprehensive BPMN libraries and offline capabilities.
Enterprise process modeling and mining platform for BPMN diagrams and continuous improvement.
Comprehensive BPM suite for modeling, analysis, and governance using multiple notations like BPMN and EPC.
Open-source BPM modeling environment for designing executable BPMN processes with UI forms.
Cloud service for collaborative business process modeling, discovery, and playbook creation.
Online visual workspace for creating BPMN diagrams with templates, collaboration, and export options.
Camunda Modeler
specializedFree BPMN 2.0 modeling tool with collaboration, simulation, and execution deployment capabilities.
Executable BPMN modeling with built-in conformance checks and direct deployment to a high-throughput, embeddable process engine
Camunda Modeler is a free, open-source desktop application for modeling BPMN 2.0 diagrams, DMN decision tables, and Cockpit forms with full standards compliance. It offers a intuitive drag-and-drop interface, real-time validation, and properties panels for precise artifact configuration, enabling the creation of executable workflows. Seamlessly integrated with the Camunda Platform, models can be directly deployed to run on lightweight, high-performance engines for orchestration and automation.
Pros
- Full BPMN 2.0, DMN 1.3, and CMMN 1.1 standards compliance with execution semantics
- Free and open-source with extensible plugin ecosystem
- Seamless deployment to Camunda's scalable process engines
Cons
- Primarily desktop-based, lacking native web collaboration without Camunda Cloud
- Steeper learning curve for non-BPMN experts
- Advanced execution requires integration with Camunda Platform
Best For
Enterprise developers and process architects needing robust, executable BPMN modeling integrated with production-grade automation engines.
Pricing
Camunda Modeler is completely free and open-source; Camunda Platform offers a free community edition and enterprise plans with custom pricing based on usage.
Bizagi Modeler
specializedFree desktop application for creating professional BPMN process diagrams with simulation and publishing features.
Advanced simulation engine that models process execution, resource allocation, and costs directly within the free tool
Bizagi Modeler is a free, desktop-based tool specializing in business process modeling using the BPMN 2.0 standard. It provides an intuitive drag-and-drop interface for creating detailed process diagrams, validating models for compliance, and running simulations to analyze performance metrics like bottlenecks and cycle times. Users can export models to formats such as PDF, Word, Visio, and XML, and publish interactive web versions for stakeholder review.
Pros
- Completely free with no usage limits
- Highly intuitive interface with excellent BPMN support
- Built-in simulation for process validation and optimization
Cons
- Windows-only (no Mac or Linux native support)
- Limited real-time collaboration features
- Full execution and automation require paid Bizagi suite upgrades
Best For
Business analysts, process modelers, and teams needing a professional, no-cost BPMN tool for diagramming and simulation.
Pricing
Free for unlimited use; optional paid upgrades for automation and cloud features start at custom enterprise pricing.
Microsoft Visio
enterprisePowerful diagramming software with extensive BPMN stencils, data linking, and integration with Microsoft 365.
BPMN 2.0 diagram validation engine that checks compliance and suggests corrections automatically
Microsoft Visio is a versatile diagramming application from Microsoft, specializing in creating detailed visual representations of business processes, flowcharts, and organizational structures. It provides robust support for BPMN 2.0, UML, and other modeling standards through extensive stencil libraries and validation rules to ensure diagram accuracy. Integrated deeply with the Microsoft 365 suite, Visio enables data-driven diagrams linked to Excel, SharePoint, and Power BI for dynamic process modeling and analysis.
Pros
- Comprehensive BPMN 2.0 support with validation and auto-layout features
- Seamless integration with Microsoft tools like Excel, Teams, and Power Automate
- Data linking capabilities for live, interactive process diagrams
Cons
- Subscription model can be expensive for non-enterprise users
- Steeper learning curve for advanced modeling features
- Collaboration features lag behind dedicated cloud-native BPM tools
Best For
Enterprise teams embedded in the Microsoft ecosystem seeking professional diagramming for BPMN-compliant process modeling.
Pricing
Visio Plan 1: $5/user/month (web-only); Visio Plan 2: $15/user/month (desktop + web); included in select Microsoft 365 E3/E5 plans.
Lucidchart
creative_suiteCloud-based diagramming platform supporting BPMN, real-time collaboration, and automation integrations.
BPMN 2.0 validation and automation that auto-generates diagrams from CSV, Excel, or database data
Lucidchart is a cloud-based diagramming platform specializing in visual collaboration for business process modeling, including BPMN 2.0 diagrams, flowcharts, swimlanes, and value stream maps. It provides drag-and-drop interfaces, extensive shape libraries, and automation features like data-linked diagrams for dynamic process visualization. Ideal for documenting, analyzing, and sharing processes, it supports real-time team editing and integrates with tools like Google Workspace, Microsoft 365, and Jira.
Pros
- Intuitive drag-and-drop interface with BPMN validation and auto-layout
- Real-time multiplayer collaboration with commenting and version history
- Strong integrations and data automation from spreadsheets or databases
Cons
- Lacks advanced simulation or execution capabilities found in dedicated BPM suites
- Free tier limits exports and shapes; full features require paid plans
- Can slow down with extremely large or complex diagrams
Best For
Collaborative teams in mid-sized businesses focused on process documentation, mapping, and analysis rather than execution.
Pricing
Free for basic use; Individual plan at $9/user/month; Team at $9/user/month (billed annually); Enterprise custom pricing.
Diagrams.net
otherFree, open-source diagramming tool with comprehensive BPMN libraries and offline capabilities.
Comprehensive BPMN 2.0 compliance with layers, custom shapes, and automatic layout for complex process models
Diagrams.net (formerly Draw.io) is a free, open-source diagramming tool that supports business process modeling through extensive BPMN 2.0 libraries, flowcharts, and workflow diagrams. It enables users to create, edit, and collaborate on process maps with drag-and-drop simplicity, integrating seamlessly with cloud services like Google Drive and OneDrive. Ideal for visualizing processes, it offers export options to PDF, SVG, and XML but lacks simulation or execution capabilities found in dedicated BPM suites.
Pros
- Completely free with no feature limits or subscriptions
- Intuitive drag-and-drop interface with rich BPMN 2.0 shape libraries
- Real-time collaboration and offline desktop app support
Cons
- No process simulation, execution, or analytics features
- Limited enterprise governance like role-based access or audit trails
- Steeper learning curve for advanced customizations
Best For
Small to medium teams needing a cost-free, flexible tool for static BPMN diagramming and process visualization.
Pricing
Entirely free for web, desktop, and integrations; no paid tiers.
SAP Signavio
enterpriseEnterprise process modeling and mining platform for BPMN diagrams and continuous improvement.
Integrated process mining engine that creates digital twins of actual operations from event logs
SAP Signavio is a leading business process management (BPM) platform that supports visual modeling, simulation, analysis, and optimization of business processes using standards like BPMN 2.0. It integrates process mining to discover real-world processes from event data, enabling gap analysis between as-is and to-be states. As part of the SAP ecosystem, it facilitates enterprise-wide collaboration, decision-making, and continuous improvement initiatives.
Pros
- Advanced process mining for automatic discovery and conformance checking
- Seamless collaboration tools with real-time editing and commenting
- Deep integration with SAP S/4HANA and other enterprise systems
Cons
- Enterprise-level pricing can be prohibitive for SMBs
- Steep learning curve for non-expert users and advanced analytics
- Limited free tier or trial options for full feature access
Best For
Large enterprises within the SAP ecosystem seeking integrated process modeling, mining, and optimization at scale.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; typically starts at €10,000+ annually for basic teams, scaling to six figures for enterprise deployments.
ARIS
enterpriseComprehensive BPM suite for modeling, analysis, and governance using multiple notations like BPMN and EPC.
Sophisticated EPC (Event-driven Process Chain) method with integrated simulation and semantic process repository
ARIS, developed by Software AG, is a leading enterprise-grade business process modeling (BPM) platform that enables organizations to design, analyze, simulate, and optimize processes using standards like BPMN 2.0, EPC, and Petri Nets. It features a central repository for process governance, collaboration, and lifecycle management, supporting end-to-end digital transformation initiatives. ARIS integrates seamlessly with IT tools, ERP systems, and process mining for comprehensive business architecture management.
Pros
- Extensive modeling notations and metamodel with over 200 object types
- Advanced simulation, animation, and process mining capabilities
- Robust governance, compliance, and enterprise scalability
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex interface for beginners
- High cost unsuitable for small teams or startups
- Heavy reliance on training and consulting for full utilization
Best For
Large enterprises and organizations with complex, regulated processes needing advanced modeling, simulation, and governance.
Pricing
Enterprise licensing via custom quotes, typically starting at €5,000-€20,000+ annually per user; ARIS Express free for basic use, cloud subscriptions from ~€100/user/month.
Bonita Studio
specializedOpen-source BPM modeling environment for designing executable BPMN processes with UI forms.
Integrated 'Living Application' designer combining BPMN processes, forms, and logic into deployable full-stack apps without external tools.
Bonita Studio is an open-source low-code platform from Bonitasoft designed for modeling, automating, and deploying business processes using BPMN 2.0 standards. It offers a visual Eclipse-based IDE for creating workflows, building interactive forms, and integrating with databases, APIs, and third-party systems via a library of pre-built connectors. The tool supports the full process lifecycle, including simulation, testing, and execution on the Bonita runtime engine, making it suitable for developers and business analysts alike.
Pros
- Fully open-source Community Edition with no licensing costs
- Strong BPMN 2.0 compliance and extensive connector library for integrations
- Comprehensive lifecycle support including simulation and deployment
Cons
- Eclipse-based UI feels dated and has a steeper learning curve
- Limited native reporting and analytics capabilities
- Enterprise features require paid subscription
Best For
Development teams and organizations seeking a cost-effective, open-source BPMN modeling tool for custom process automation.
Pricing
Free Community Edition; Subscription for Enterprise starts at ~$2,000/year for basic support, scales with users and features.
IBM Blueworks Live
enterpriseCloud service for collaborative business process modeling, discovery, and playbook creation.
Statement-driven modeling that uses natural language playbooks for accessible, visual process creation by business users.
IBM Blueworks Live is a cloud-based business process modeling platform designed for discovering, documenting, and optimizing business processes collaboratively. It uses a simple drag-and-drop interface with pre-built process elements and statement-based modeling to make BPM accessible to business users without technical expertise. The tool supports process analysis, playbooks, and integration with IBM's broader BPM suite for enterprise-scale process management.
Pros
- Highly intuitive interface for non-technical users
- Strong collaboration and sharing capabilities
- Built-in process library and analytics tools
Cons
- Enterprise pricing can be costly for small teams
- Limited support for advanced simulation or execution
- Heavy reliance on IBM ecosystem for full potential
Best For
Large enterprises and business analysts seeking collaborative process documentation and improvement without coding.
Pricing
Subscription-based; contact sales for custom enterprise pricing, typically starting at $25-50/user/month.
Creately
creative_suiteOnline visual workspace for creating BPMN diagrams with templates, collaboration, and export options.
AI-powered diagram generation and auto-suggestions for rapid BPMN and flowchart creation
Creately is a cloud-based visual collaboration platform designed for creating diagrams, including business process models, BPMN flowcharts, and workflow maps. It provides an intuitive drag-and-drop interface with thousands of templates and shapes specifically for process modeling. Users can collaborate in real-time, embed data, and integrate with tools like Jira and Slack to streamline business process documentation and analysis.
Pros
- Intuitive drag-and-drop interface with smart connectors
- Extensive library of BPMN and process templates
- Strong real-time collaboration and team features
Cons
- Limited advanced simulation or execution capabilities for BPM
- Some premium templates and exports require paid plans
- Performance can lag with very large diagrams
Best For
Small to medium teams needing simple, collaborative visual process modeling without complex automation.
Pricing
Free plan available; Personal plan at $8/user/month; Team plan at $10/seat/month (billed annually).
Conclusion
The top business process modeling software reviewed offer diverse strengths, with Camunda Modeler leading as the top choice, excelling in BPMN 2.0 modeling, collaboration, simulation, and execution. Bizagi Modeler and Microsoft Visio stand out as strong alternatives: the former with free desktop access and professional diagramming, the latter with robust Microsoft ecosystem integration and extensive BPMN stencils. Regardless of needs—from open-source flexibility to enterprise-grade tools—there’s a solution to enhance process efficiency, with Camunda Modeler at the forefront.
Start with Camunda Modeler to experience its comprehensive capabilities, or consider Bizagi Modeler or Microsoft Visio for tailored needs, and take the first step toward streamlining your business processes.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison