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Import BPMN Files as Workflows

Available since
  • v5.0.1 and later

In Orkes Conductor, you can quickly convert BPMN (Business Process Model and Notation) files into workflow definitions. This simplifies the migration from BPMN-based systems by supporting standard XML and BPMN formats. Whether you’re transitioning from legacy tools or starting with predefined processes, the BPMN importer enables a fast, code-free transition into the Conductor ecosystem.

Importing BPMN files​

To import a BPMN file:

  1. Go to Definitions > Workflow from the left navigation menu on your Conductor cluster.
  2. Select the ⏷ icon next to + Define workflow.
  3. From the dropdown menu, select Import BPMN.

Importing BPMN files

  1. Import files using one of the following methods:
    • Select file: Upload a .bpmn file from your local device.
    • Drag and drop: Drop the BPMN files directly into the designated area in the UI.
    • Code: Paste the raw XML content of your BPMN directly in the code tab.

BPMN Importer

  1. The Workflow Name field is pre-filled with the file name by default. Edit it if you want to use a different name.
  2. Toggle Overwrite workflow on to replace an existing workflow definition with the same name. Disable this option if you want to prevent overwrites.
  3. Select Import.

The BPMN file is converted into workflow definitions in Orkes Conductor. Each process defined in the imported BPMN file is converted into an equivalent Orkes Conductor workflow definition.

BPMN Importer

After importing, the newly created workflows appear in Definitions > Workflows.

The import will fail with an error if the BPMN file:

  • Contains a circular reference
  • Has multiple start events
  • Is incomplete or malformed

Next steps​

With the imported workflow definitions in place, you can: