BPMN models can be integrated with models from other domains in different ways. One way is by linking BPMN data objects, data inputs, data outputs, and data stores in processes and collaborations to ERD entities or UML classes. Another way to link BPMN elements with elements from other metamodels is by adding cross-model relations.

To be able to link BPMN elements to elements in models from other metamodels, all models must be in the same model package.

A BPMN data element can only be linked to one ERD entity or UML class, not to both. For more information about cross-model relations, please refer to Adding cross-model relations.

On this page:

Linking a data element to an ERD entity

To create a link between a BPMN model and an ER model, ERD entities must be present in the ER model.

1. Open the diagram containing the data element you want to link to an ERD entity.
   
   
2. Select the data element, and then click  on the left side of the object.
   
   
3. In the Select ERD entity window, select the desired ERD entity from the ER model and click OK.

The data element now refers to the chosen ERD entity. Examples:

Linking a data element to a UML class

To create a link between a BPMN model and a UML model, UML classes must be present in the UML model.

1. Open the diagram containing the data element you want to link to a UML class.
   
   
2. Select the data element, and then click  on the left side of the object.
   
   
3. In the Select UML class window, select the desired UML class from the UML model and click OK.

The data element now refers to the chosen UML class. Examples:

Navigating to a linked ERD entity or UML class

Once a link between a data element and an ERD entity or UML class has been created, it is possible to navigate directly from the data element to the linked entity or class. To do this, select the data element in the diagram and then click  or  in the object. Next, the view (ERD) or diagram (UML) containing the object is opened.

Changing the link to an ERD entity or UML class

To change an existing link to an ERD entity or UML class, select the data element in the diagram, and then click  or  in the object. Next, you can select another entity or class.

Removing the link to an ERD entity or UML class

To remove the link to an ERD entity or UML class, select the data element in the diagram, and then click the cross sign in the object.