A restructuring method for ws-bpel business processes based on extended workflow graphs

Abstract

Much research effort has been spent on the provision of analysis methods for business processes specified by means of Web Services Business Process Execution Language (WS-BPEL). Nevertheless, most approaches neglect conditional control flow, though running the risk of erroneous analysis results. In this paper, we present a restructuring approach for WS-BPEL processes, which helps to partly remedy conditional control flow. We therefore use a combination of workflow graphs and Concurrent Static Single Assignment Form. Based on the hybrid format, we are able to identify loops with static quasi-constant loop condition and transform them in such a way, that conditional control flow is replaced by unconditional control flow. Augmenting an existing analysis with the proposed restructuring then enables more precise results, as is shown for a compatibility analysis of WS-BPEL business processes. © 2009 Springer Berlin Heidelberg.