Quick Overview
- 1#1: Camunda - Open-source workflow and decision automation platform with advanced BPMN 2.0 modeling, execution, and monitoring capabilities.
- 2#2: Bizagi - User-friendly BPM suite for visually modeling, automating, and optimizing business processes with BPMN support.
- 3#3: SAP Signavio - Process intelligence platform combining BPMN modeling, simulation, and mining for enterprise process discovery and improvement.
- 4#4: ARIS - Comprehensive business process design platform supporting BPMN, EPC, and enterprise architecture modeling with analysis tools.
- 5#5: Bonitasoft - Open-source BPM platform for designing, deploying, and managing business processes using BPMN standards.
- 6#6: Microsoft Visio - Professional diagramming application with native BPMN 2.0 support for creating and validating business process diagrams.
- 7#7: Lucidchart - Collaborative online diagramming tool featuring BPMN shapes, automation, and integrations for process mapping.
- 8#8: diagrams.net - Free, open-source diagramming software with full BPMN 2.0 support, validation, and export options.
- 9#9: Creately - Visual workspace for creating BPMN process maps, flowcharts, and collaborative business process diagrams.
- 10#10: Visual Paradigm - Modeling toolset supporting BPMN, UML, and business process simulation with team collaboration features.
Tools were selected based on a balance of features (including native BPMN support), usability, quality, and value, ensuring they cater to diverse needs, from small teams to large enterprises.
Comparison Table
This comparison table features top business process modeling software tools, including Camunda, Bizagi, SAP Signavio, ARIS, Bonitasoft, and more, to guide users in evaluating options. It highlights key functionalities, strengths, and ideal use cases, helping readers identify tools that align with their workflow requirements.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Camunda Open-source workflow and decision automation platform with advanced BPMN 2.0 modeling, execution, and monitoring capabilities. | enterprise | 9.6/10 | 9.8/10 | 8.7/10 | 9.4/10 |
| 2 | Bizagi User-friendly BPM suite for visually modeling, automating, and optimizing business processes with BPMN support. | enterprise | 9.2/10 | 9.4/10 | 9.0/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 3 | SAP Signavio Process intelligence platform combining BPMN modeling, simulation, and mining for enterprise process discovery and improvement. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 4 | ARIS Comprehensive business process design platform supporting BPMN, EPC, and enterprise architecture modeling with analysis tools. | enterprise | 8.8/10 | 9.4/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 5 | Bonitasoft Open-source BPM platform for designing, deploying, and managing business processes using BPMN standards. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.5/10 | 9.0/10 |
| 6 | Microsoft Visio Professional diagramming application with native BPMN 2.0 support for creating and validating business process diagrams. | creative_suite | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.8/10 | 7.0/10 |
| 7 | Lucidchart Collaborative online diagramming tool featuring BPMN shapes, automation, and integrations for process mapping. | creative_suite | 8.3/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.7/10 |
| 8 | diagrams.net Free, open-source diagramming software with full BPMN 2.0 support, validation, and export options. | other | 8.7/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 | 10.0/10 |
| 9 | Creately Visual workspace for creating BPMN process maps, flowcharts, and collaborative business process diagrams. | creative_suite | 8.1/10 | 7.8/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.4/10 |
| 10 | Visual Paradigm Modeling toolset supporting BPMN, UML, and business process simulation with team collaboration features. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 9.0/10 | 7.5/10 | 8.5/10 |
Open-source workflow and decision automation platform with advanced BPMN 2.0 modeling, execution, and monitoring capabilities.
User-friendly BPM suite for visually modeling, automating, and optimizing business processes with BPMN support.
Process intelligence platform combining BPMN modeling, simulation, and mining for enterprise process discovery and improvement.
Comprehensive business process design platform supporting BPMN, EPC, and enterprise architecture modeling with analysis tools.
Open-source BPM platform for designing, deploying, and managing business processes using BPMN standards.
Professional diagramming application with native BPMN 2.0 support for creating and validating business process diagrams.
Collaborative online diagramming tool featuring BPMN shapes, automation, and integrations for process mapping.
Free, open-source diagramming software with full BPMN 2.0 support, validation, and export options.
Visual workspace for creating BPMN process maps, flowcharts, and collaborative business process diagrams.
Modeling toolset supporting BPMN, UML, and business process simulation with team collaboration features.
Camunda
enterpriseOpen-source workflow and decision automation platform with advanced BPMN 2.0 modeling, execution, and monitoring capabilities.
Zeebe engine: a cloud-native, horizontally scalable orchestrator that executes BPMN workflows at massive scale without single points of failure
Camunda is a leading open-source platform for process orchestration and automation, built on BPMN 2.0, DMN, and CMMN standards, enabling modeling, execution, monitoring, and optimization of business processes. It features a lightweight, embeddable engine (Zeebe in Camunda 8) that scales horizontally for high-volume workflows and integrates seamlessly with microservices architectures. With intuitive web-based tools like Modeler, Operate, Tasklist, and Optimize, it supports end-to-end process lifecycle management for developers and business users alike.
Pros
- Full BPMN 2.0 compliance with native execution engine for reliable process automation
- Scalable orchestration with Zeebe, handling millions of workflows per day
- Comprehensive tooling including real-time monitoring (Operate) and AI-driven optimization (Optimize)
Cons
- Steeper learning curve for non-developers due to its technical depth
- Enterprise features and support require paid subscription
- Initial setup can be complex for on-premises deployments
Best For
Development teams and enterprises needing scalable, standards-compliant BPMN process modeling and high-throughput automation in microservices environments.
Pricing
Free Community Edition (self-managed); Camunda 8 Enterprise/SaaS starts at ~$500/month per namespace with usage-based scaling, custom enterprise pricing available.
Bizagi
enterpriseUser-friendly BPM suite for visually modeling, automating, and optimizing business processes with BPMN support.
Free, professional-grade BPMN Modeler with advanced simulation and collaboration features
Bizagi is a low-code platform specializing in business process management, offering tools for modeling, automation, and optimization using BPMN 2.0 standards. Its Bizagi Modeler provides a free, intuitive tool for creating detailed process diagrams with simulation capabilities, while Bizagi Studio and Engine enable rapid application development and deployment. The platform supports end-to-end digital transformation, integrating seamlessly with enterprise systems like ERP and CRM.
Pros
- Free Bizagi Modeler with full BPMN 2.0 support and simulation
- Low-code automation from modeling to execution
- Excellent integration with databases, APIs, and enterprise apps
Cons
- Enterprise pricing requires custom quotes and can be steep
- Advanced customization needs developer skills
- Limited native mobile app development tools
Best For
Mid-to-large enterprises needing robust BPMN modeling and low-code process automation.
Pricing
Bizagi Modeler is free; Studio and Engine are subscription-based with custom enterprise pricing (typically $20-50/user/month or process-based).
SAP Signavio
enterpriseProcess intelligence platform combining BPMN modeling, simulation, and mining for enterprise process discovery and improvement.
Process Intelligence engine that automatically discovers and visualizes actual process flows from operational data
SAP Signavio is a leading business process management suite that excels in modeling, analysis, and optimization of business processes using BPMN 2.0 and other standards. It combines collaborative modeling tools with advanced process mining to discover real-world process variations from event logs, enabling data-driven improvements. Integrated deeply with the SAP ecosystem, it supports simulation, decision modeling (DMN), and governance for enterprise-scale deployments.
Pros
- Powerful process mining integrates discovered processes with models for accurate analysis
- Excellent collaboration features including commenting, voting, and workflow governance
- Seamless integration with SAP S/4HANA and other enterprise systems
Cons
- High enterprise-level pricing not suitable for SMBs
- Steep learning curve for advanced features like simulation and DMN
- Limited free tier or trial options for full functionality
Best For
Large enterprises with complex, SAP-integrated processes seeking data-driven optimization.
Pricing
Enterprise subscription pricing starting at around €10,000+ annually, customized based on users, processes, and mining data volume.
ARIS
enterpriseComprehensive business process design platform supporting BPMN, EPC, and enterprise architecture modeling with analysis tools.
Centralized process repository with semantic search, governance workflows, and seamless integration of process mining for end-to-end lifecycle management
ARIS (Architecture of Integrated Information Systems) from Software AG is a comprehensive enterprise-grade business process modeling platform that supports modeling, analysis, simulation, and governance of business processes using notations like EPC, BPMN 2.0, and Value-Added Chain diagrams. It provides a centralized repository for process assets, enabling collaboration, compliance management, and integration with enterprise architecture and IT tools. ARIS excels in complex environments, offering process mining, risk analysis, and optimization capabilities to drive digital transformation.
Pros
- Extensive notation support including proprietary EPC and standards like BPMN
- Robust governance, simulation, and process mining integrations
- Scalable repository for enterprise-wide collaboration and compliance
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to depth and complexity
- High enterprise-level pricing with custom quotes required
- Overly complex for small teams or basic modeling needs
Best For
Large enterprises and organizations needing advanced process governance, analysis, and integration with EA/IT systems.
Pricing
Enterprise subscription model; modular pricing starts at ~€5,000-€20,000+ per user/year depending on edition and features—contact sales for custom quotes.
Bonitasoft
enterpriseOpen-source BPM platform for designing, deploying, and managing business processes using BPMN standards.
100% open-source BPMN 2.0 engine with 'Living Applications' for combining processes, UIs, and data in a single deployable artifact
Bonitasoft (Bonita BPM) is an open-source business process management platform that enables modeling, automation, execution, and monitoring of business processes using BPMN 2.0 standards. It includes Bonita Studio for visual process design, a runtime engine for execution, and a portal for user interaction and analytics. The platform emphasizes scalability, customization, and integration for enterprise workflows.
Pros
- Fully open-source community edition with no core licensing costs
- Extensive library of connectors and integrations for enterprise systems
- Scalable architecture supporting high-volume processes
Cons
- Steep learning curve, especially for non-technical users
- Studio interface feels dated and Eclipse-based
- Complex initial setup and configuration for production
Best For
Mid-to-large enterprises seeking a customizable, open-source BPM solution without vendor lock-in.
Pricing
Community Edition: Free; Enterprise Subscription: Custom pricing starting around €15,000/year based on users and support level.
Microsoft Visio
creative_suiteProfessional diagramming application with native BPMN 2.0 support for creating and validating business process diagrams.
BPMN validation rules that automatically check and enforce compliance with BPMN 2.0 standards during diagram creation
Microsoft Visio is a versatile diagramming tool renowned for creating detailed business process models, flowcharts, BPMN diagrams, and organizational charts. It provides a vast library of stencils, templates, and validation rules compliant with standards like BPMN 2.0, enabling precise visualization of workflows and processes. Visio supports data linking from sources like Excel and databases, allowing dynamic, updatable diagrams integrated within the Microsoft ecosystem.
Pros
- Comprehensive BPMN 2.0 support with built-in validation rules
- Seamless integration with Microsoft 365, Excel, and Power BI for data-driven diagrams
- Extensive template and stencil library for various process modeling needs
Cons
- High subscription cost, especially for the full desktop version
- Steeper learning curve for advanced features and customization
- Lacks native process simulation or execution capabilities found in dedicated BPM suites
Best For
Enterprise teams embedded in the Microsoft ecosystem requiring professional, standards-compliant process diagramming.
Pricing
Visio Plan 1 (web-only) at $5/user/month; Plan 2 (desktop + web) at $15/user/month; often bundled with Microsoft 365 subscriptions.
Lucidchart
creative_suiteCollaborative online diagramming tool featuring BPMN shapes, automation, and integrations for process mapping.
Real-time multiplayer editing with live cursors and version history for seamless team collaboration on process diagrams
Lucidchart is a cloud-based diagramming platform specializing in visual collaboration for business process modeling, including BPMN 2.0 diagrams, flowcharts, and swimlane processes. It provides drag-and-drop interfaces, extensive shape libraries, and templates tailored for process mapping and documentation. The tool supports real-time collaboration, data integration, and automation features to enhance process visualization and sharing across teams.
Pros
- Intuitive drag-and-drop interface with BPMN-compliant shapes and templates
- Real-time collaboration for team editing and commenting
- Seamless integrations with tools like Google Workspace, Microsoft Office, and Jira
Cons
- Lacks built-in process simulation or execution capabilities found in dedicated BPM suites
- Higher pricing for advanced team features can strain small budgets
- Performance may lag with very large or complex diagrams
Best For
Collaborative teams in mid-sized businesses needing accessible visual process modeling without advanced automation.
Pricing
Free for basic individual use; Individual plan at $7.95/user/month; Team at $9/user/month; Enterprise custom pricing.
diagrams.net
otherFree, open-source diagramming software with full BPMN 2.0 support, validation, and export options.
Full BPMN 2.0 validation and error-checking directly in the editor, ensuring diagram compliance without additional plugins
diagrams.net (formerly draw.io) is a free, open-source diagramming tool that supports Business Process Model and Notation (BPMN) 2.0 for creating detailed process maps, flowcharts, and workflows. It provides an extensive library of shapes, templates, and validation tools tailored for business process modeling, accessible via web browser, desktop app, or integrations with cloud storage like Google Drive and OneDrive. The tool emphasizes flexibility, allowing users to work offline and export in multiple formats without any subscription.
Pros
- Completely free with full BPMN 2.0 support, including shape libraries and validation rules
- Offline desktop app and seamless integrations with cloud services for easy access
- Highly customizable layers, styles, and export options for professional diagrams
Cons
- Interface can feel cluttered and overwhelming for BPM beginners
- Limited real-time collaboration compared to dedicated enterprise tools
- Lacks advanced BPM features like process simulation or execution
Best For
Freelancers, small teams, and educators needing a cost-free, versatile tool for BPMN diagramming without complex workflow automation.
Pricing
Entirely free with no paid tiers or feature limitations; optional desktop app is also free.
Creately
creative_suiteVisual workspace for creating BPMN process maps, flowcharts, and collaborative business process diagrams.
Real-time multiplayer editing with live cursors and comments for seamless team collaboration
Creately is a cloud-based visual collaboration platform specializing in diagramming tools, including robust support for Business Process Model and Notation (BPMN) diagrams, flowcharts, and process maps. It offers drag-and-drop interfaces, extensive template libraries, and real-time multiplayer editing to streamline process modeling for teams. With integrations to tools like Jira, Slack, and Microsoft Teams, it facilitates seamless workflow visualization and sharing.
Pros
- Intuitive drag-and-drop interface with BPMN 2.0 support and swimlane diagrams
- Real-time collaboration for team-based process modeling
- Vast library of pre-built templates and shapes for quick starts
Cons
- Lacks advanced BPM features like process simulation or execution
- Free plan limits exports and storage
- Customization options can feel limited for complex enterprise models
Best For
Small to medium teams needing an accessible, collaborative tool for creating and sharing BPMN diagrams and process visuals without deep simulation needs.
Pricing
Free plan; Personal at $5/user/month; Team at $10/user/month (billed annually); Enterprise custom pricing.
Visual Paradigm
specializedModeling toolset supporting BPMN, UML, and business process simulation with team collaboration features.
Integrated BPMN simulation and animation for process validation and stakeholder communication
Visual Paradigm is a versatile modeling platform that provides robust support for Business Process Model and Notation (BPMN) 2.0, enabling users to create, simulate, and animate business processes. It integrates seamlessly with other standards like UML, ArchiMate, and SysML, offering a unified environment for enterprise modeling. The tool includes team collaboration features, requirements management, and export options to various formats for documentation and execution.
Pros
- Comprehensive BPMN 2.0 support with validation, simulation, and animation
- Strong team collaboration and version control features
- Free community edition available for basic use
Cons
- Steeper learning curve for non-expert users
- Interface can feel cluttered with extensive toolsets
- Advanced enterprise features require higher-tier subscriptions
Best For
Mid-to-large teams in enterprises requiring multi-standard modeling with BPMN focus and collaboration.
Pricing
Free Community Edition; Standard from $6/user/month; Professional/Enterprise up to $169/user/month (billed annually).
Conclusion
Across the reviewed tools, Camunda rises as the top choice, offering advanced BPMN 2.0 capabilities and robust automation, with Bizagi and SAP Signavio following closely as excellent alternatives—each tailored to distinct organizational needs, whether user-friendliness, process intelligence, or comprehensive modeling. From open-source flexibility to enterprise-grade integration, the list provides diverse solutions for streamlining workflows, ensuring there’s an option to match nearly every requirement.
Begin your process modeling journey by exploring Camunda to unlock its powerful automation features, or consider Bizagi or SAP Signavio if your focus lies in intuitive design or deep process analysis—all top tools designed to elevate your business operations.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison