A visualization concept for high-level comparison of process model versions

Abstract

Managing large collections of different process model versions is for many organizations inevitable and results from, e.g., adaption of models to solve different challenges or modifications due to changed or new conditions. One challenge in this context is to make the differences between the versions visible and comparable. Visualizations have the advantage that they can present the relationships between the different process versions in a user-friendly way and therefore support users in their decisions. In this paper we introduce a visualization concept with the goal to provide a simple overview in order to compare complementary or contrasting characteristics between different versions. The design idea is presented on the basis of two use cases. Limitations of the concept are also discussed. The visualization concept should support users to gain a first impression about the characteristics between the versions and can be used as an entry point for a more detailed analysis of the different versions. © 2013 Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg.