Pattern-based identification of differences in process models

Advanced software process management requires capabilities to systematically analyze differences between process models. These capabilities can be used, for instance, to support process compliance management, to learn from process evolution, or to identify and understand process variations in different development environments in order to develop generic process models such as process standards. Analyzing the differences between process models is a highly challenging task that needs to be based on appropriate methods and tools. Experience has shown that, beside global comparisons of process models, local and focused difference analyses are often needed. Example goals of such focused analyses are the identification of all process changes that are relevant for a specific role, or the identification of those process changes that are relevant for a process reassessment. This article presents a pattern-based technique for such focused analysis. The technique is a component of the comprehensive DeltaProcess approach for difference analysis [SM06]. We explain the underlying concepts of the technique, describe a supporting tool, and sketch an initial validation in the context of the German V-Modell XT. We close the paper with related work and directions for future research.