Towards Executable Specifications For Case Management Processes

Explicit process specifications play an important role in process-aware information systems (PAIS). Whereas methodologies for modeling structured, activity-oriented processes are well established, modeling formalisms for unstructured processes such as case management processes (CMP) are lagging. In this chapter, we define a state-oriented formalism that allows for executable specifications of CMP and paves the road for predictive analysis and recommendations support intended to case managers. This formalism is grounded on statecharts developed by D. Harel in 1987. We adopt the main concepts defined by statecharts and demonstrate how they can be used to specify a case management process. We also propose adaptations and potential extensions of the statecharts formalism that could address CMP specifics and complexity.