Camunda Modeler

Camunda Modeler is a comprehensive, Electron-based application designed specifically for BPMN (Business Process Model and Notation) workflow and DMN (Decision Model and Notation) decision modeling.

The application is designed to allow just about anyone to perform visual modeling, however, it also allows users to edit all the necessary properties for technical execution. One of the app’s biggest advantages is the fact that it allows multiple developers to work on the same diagrams.

This fact makes it especially easy for developers to combine them (the diagrams) with their preferred IDEs. It’s worth noting that the utility supports BPMN 2.0, CMMN 1.1, and DMN 1.1. Another aspect that defines Camunda Modeler is the usage of so-called “element templates.”

In short, these templates allow developers to create pre-defined configurations in JSON files. For example, developers can create pre-defined configurations for their BPMN elements such as user tasks or services. Once the templates are applied using the properties panel (located in the right part of the main window), users are provided with custom input options.

All this adds up towards creating a smooth, perfectly-tailored environment for building and managing workflows. Since these templates are defined as JSON files, they can be found in the “resources/element-templates” folder. For more information regarding the usage of templates, developers can check out the dedicated section on the project’s GitHub repository.

Upon first launching the app, users are prompted if they want to use three plugins to provide the developers of the app with useful information. This brings us to another interesting point – the fact that Camunda Modeler works well with additional, third-party plugins. For example, developers can change the way the app looks, customize the GUI, add new menu entries, or even extend the app’s feature-set. The list of available plugins can be found here.

Last but not least, we have to point out just how well Camunda Modeler is documented. In the Help menu, users are provided with quick access to sections such as Documentation, User Forum, Keyboard Shortcuts, Privacy Preferences, as well as dedicated tutorials for BPMN, CMMN, and DMN.

Camunda Modeler is a complex, yet surprisingly user-friendly desktop app for editing BPMN and DMN diagrams. It bundles a list of very useful features, it allows users to easily create executable models, design workflows and decision diagrams, and it offers enough extendibility options (via plugins) to keep even the most forward-thinking users happy.