Dynamic partitioning of complex process models

The E-3 modeling language offers a set of mechanisms to support the modelin g of complex business and engineering processes. The language is based on w ell-known object-oriented concepts, extended with specific process-related notions. The E-3 language is supported by a modeling tool (called E-3 p-dra w) that offers mechanisms to support the dynamic partitioning of the proces s model, and enables the creation and the exploitation of multiple model sl ices. These mechanisms make it possible to master complex and large process models, since the process engineer can focus on specific factors and aspec ts of the process, ignoring those information that are irrelevant in a spec ific stage of the modeling activity. The language and the supporting tool h ave been applied to the modeling of real industrial processes. (C) 2000 Els evier Science B.V. All rights reserved.