Transformations from SPEM work sequences to BPMN sequence flows for the automation of software development process

Abstract

Generally, different companies use distinct software development process. Due to it, OMG has specified an architecture to can define a software development process. This architecture uses a metamodel which is able to be abstracted from particular characteristics and to give the possibility of defining the different software development processes. The Software Process Engineering Metamodel (SPEM) is a metamodel used for describing a concrete software development process. Also, the OMG specify a standardized language to model business processes. This language is called Business Process Modeling Notation (BPMN). In this paper, a formalization of transformations between SPEM and BPMN is specified. The transformations are done using the language of formal specification RSL. One time that we obtain a BPMN specification, it is possible to generate XPDL code or BPEL code. The workflow technology can use this code and execute the process. It allows automate the business process, but in this case, the process is a software development process. Consider that workflow technologies automate, totally or partially, the business processes enabling an interaction between men and machines, under an established set of procedural rules. Such technologies use standard languages, like BPEL or XPDL, to specify the business process which is executed in a workflow engine. The BPMN allows to generate BPEL or XPDL codes. Therefore, if we specify a software development process using SPEM, we will automate this process using the workflow technology due to transformations between SPEM and BPMN done in this paper.